Daily Update: Wednesday, July 3, 2024 - Crews Continue Community Support Amid Challenging Road Conditions
As the South Fork and Salt Fires continue to be managed with diligence and precision, local crews are actively engaged in supporting community efforts while awaiting improved road conditions for further operational activities.
Key Contacts:
Mescalero Apache Tribe Emergency Operations Center: 575-464-9214 (8am-6pm)
Village of Ruidoso and Lincoln County Emergency Operations Center: 575-258-6900 (7am-10pm)
Fire Information Phone: 575-323-8378 or 575-323-8258 (8am-8pm)
Media Information Phone: 575-323-8053 (8am-8pm)
Email: 2024.southfork@firenet.gov
Fire Details:
Acres: South Fork – 17,569; Salt – 7,939
Start Date: June 17, 2024
Location: South Fork – Ruidoso Area, Salt – 7 miles west of Mescalero, NM
Personnel: 532
Containment: South Fork – 87%; Salt – 84%
Fuels: Mixed conifer, grass, pine/juniper
Resources: 11 crews, 1 helicopter, 16 engines, 2 bulldozers, 5 water tenders
Highlights
Fireworks:
Fireworks are strictly prohibited on Lincoln National Forest lands. On the Mescalero Apache Indian Reservation, fireworks are only allowed as part of organized events.
Fire Restrictions:
Updated fire restrictions are in effect for Mescalero Apache Tribal lands. Details are available under "Closures."
Flood Mitigation:
Crews have continued supporting flood mitigation efforts, filling over 46,000 sandbags in the past two days to protect the community.
Fire Activity
Fire activity remains subdued on both the South Fork and Salt Fires. Lingering heat sources on the South Fork Fire primarily involve downed logs away from control lines. Hot spots on the Salt Fire are contained within dense conifer stands and snags, posing no threat to containment.
Suppression Repair
Today, suppression repair crews will focus on repairing bulldozer roads, hand lines, and conducting chipping operations across both fire areas, contingent upon favorable conditions.
Weather Outlook
Wednesday’s forecast includes light clouds, mid-80s temperatures, and potential scattered rain over the fire area. The week ahead promises a mix of warm, dry weather interspersed with scattered storms.
Closures and Restrictions
Emergency Closure Order: A South Fork Fire Emergency Closure Order remains in effect for national forest lands within the Smokey Bear Ranger District. Details can be found at USDA Alerts.
Fire Restriction Notice: The Mescalero Apache Tribe has issued an updated Class V/Stage II – Extreme Fire Restriction Notice. Visit the Mescalero Apache Tribe Facebook page for more information.
Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR): A TFR is in place over the fire area, prohibiting public/commercial drone flights. For details, visit FAA TFR.
More Information
For the latest updates and additional resources, please visit:
Stay informed, stay safe, and continue to support our community as we navigate through this challenging period together.
