New Mexico
Lightning caused devastating New Mexico wildfire, officials say
Lightning is blamed for causing one of the two devastating wildfires that tore through parts of southeastern New Mexico last month.
Federal, state and tribal officials said they identified where the South Fork Fire started, and “human activity and factors did not contribute to the cause.”
The South Fork Fire and the Salt Fire broke out on June 17 in the same general area, near the village of Ruidoso. Thousands were forced to flee their homes as the fire closed in on the village.
Two people died and more than 1,400 structures were damaged in the fires, which are both now about 90% contained.
President Joe Biden approved a major disaster declaration for New Mexico, freeing up federal funds that will assist affected individuals, households and businesses in the area.
“This federal assistance will help affected residents receive the necessary aid to begin to recover and rebuild their lives,” New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham said.
Related story: Yes, wildfires are actually becoming more intense and more common, study says
Firefighting efforts have considerably drawn down since the fires’ peak. There are now only three crews, six engines and one helicopter tending to the fires.
“Fire activity remains limited on the South Fork and Salt fires,” fire officials said on Thursday. “Hot spots remain within dense large, dead/down fuel, dense conifer stands and snags. These heat sources do not threaten containment lines.”
While the cause of the South Fork Fire has been determined, officials are still investigating how the Salt Fire started.
If it’s determined the fire was caused by a person, the FBI is offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of that individual.
New Mexico is experiencing calm weather, but a major winter storm is expected to bring widespread snow and dangerous travel conditions by Friday.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – New Mexico is experiencing calm weather, but a major winter storm is expected to bring widespread snow and dangerous travel conditions by Friday.
Skies are cloudier today and tonight, but it will remain dry with chilly overnight temperatures. Thursday will be cloudy and calm, with highs near normal and breezes around 5 to 15 mph.
Late Thursday, very cold Arctic air will move south, reaching northeast New Mexico by late afternoon or evening. The Arctic cold front will push into eastern New Mexico, bringing much colder air before sunrise Friday.
Chief Meteorologist Eddie Garcia shares all the details in his full forecast in the video above.
MORE:
Idaho bus driver arrested for possessing, distributing child sexual exploitation material
Could Iowa take over Illinois counties? Lawmaker’s bill makes the case
Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza declares for 2026 NFL draft; what it means
Iowa State football 2026 roster outlook, special teams
Convicted sex offender returned to Kentucky for sentencing after fleeing United States
Florida High School Football Rankings: Top 25 teams – Oct. 21
Cleary's 21 help Le Moyne down Central Connecticut State 69-64 in OT
How old is Bo Nix? What to know about Oregon quarterback ahead of 2024 NFL Draft
99th annual Pony Swim held in Virginia
Indiana Members Credit Union announced as new anchor tenant at Bottleworks District
Video: Jack Smith Defends His Trump Indictments During House Hearing
Trump says US should have tested NATO by invoking Article 5 over border security
Why is South Africa upset about Iran joining BRICS naval drills?
Do we know what’s happening with Greenland? : Sources & Methods
White House explains bruise on Trump’s hand
-
Sports5 days agoMiami’s Carson Beck turns heads with stunning admission about attending classes as college athlete
-
Illinois1 day agoIllinois school closings tomorrow: How to check if your school is closed due to extreme cold
-
Detroit, MI1 week agoSchool Closings: List of closures across metro Detroit
-
Pittsburg, PA4 days agoSean McDermott Should Be Steelers Next Head Coach
-
Lifestyle1 week agoJulio Iglesias accused of sexual assault as Spanish prosecutors study the allegations
-
Sports3 days agoMiami star throws punch at Indiana player after national championship loss
-
Lifestyle4 days agoNick Fuentes & Andrew Tate Party to Kanye’s Banned ‘Heil Hitler’
-
Technology1 week agoBMW says electric M3 will be a ‘new level’ of performance