Massive Wildfire Rages in New Mexico

Posted on May 26, 2012

jared (CC BY 2.0)

Smoke from a summer wildfire darkens the sky over New Mexico in 2011.

Lightning strikes sparked two wildfires in southwestern New Mexico that have merged and spread over 130 square miles, destroying more than a dozen structures.

With smoke and ash spreading over a wide area, health officials warned residents to limit outdoor activities as the Memorial Day holiday weekend unfolded. —ARK

The Associated Press via The Guardian:

The fire burned early Saturday through remote and rugged terrain around the Gila Wilderness and has grown to 85,000 acres (34,400 hectares) or more than 130 square miles (338 square kilometers).

… More than 500 firefighters are battling the blaze that resulted from the merger earlier this week of two lightning-sparked fires. Fire officials say nearly all of the growth has come in recent days due to relentless winds.

The blaze has destroyed 12 cabins and seven small outbuildings, and the privately owned ghost town of Mogollon was placed under a voluntary evacuation order.

Read more

More Below the Ad

New and Improved Comments

If you have trouble leaving a comment, review this help page. Still having problems? Let us know. If you find yourself moderated, take a moment to review our comment policy.