As the South Fork and Salt fires continue to impact the Ruidoso area and surrounding communities, the Incident Management Team led by Commander Dave Gesser is working tirelessly to manage and mitigate the situation. With over 1,100 personnel on the ground, the team is focused on assessing and addressing ongoing hazards, ensuring the safety of both the public and firefighters. Despite recent rains moderating fire activity, significant risks remain, prompting continued evacuations and area closures. This daily update provides the latest information on fire containment efforts, current conditions, and essential safety precautions.

Public Information Map, South Fork and Salt Fires, June 22, 2024

Area Closures and Ongoing Hazards

As of Saturday, June 22, 2024, area closures remain in effect due to ongoing hazards from the South Fork and Salt fires. Firefighting personnel are diligently working to assess and address these hazards, which include downed powerlines, damaged infrastructure, localized flooding, and fire-weakened trees. The safety of both firefighters and the public is our top priority, and we urge everyone to exercise extra caution along roadways due to the presence of emergency vehicles and fire equipment.

Daily Update:

Public Information Line: 575-323-8258 or 575-323-8378
Media Information Line: 575-323-8053
Phone Line Hours: 8 am – 8 pm
Email: 2024.southfork@firenet.gov

Fire Statistics

Acres: South Fork – 16,614; Salt – 7,652
Start Date: June 17, 2024
Location: South Fork – Ruidoso Area; Salt – 7 miles west of Mescalero, NM
Personnel: 1,109
Containment: South Fork – 26%; Salt – 7%
Fuels: Mixed conifer, grass, pine/juniper
Resources: 23 Crews, 94 Engines, 14 Dozers, 18 Water Tenders. Helicopters and air tankers are available for bucket and retardant drops as conditions allow.

Current Highlights

While recent rains have helped moderate fire activity, significant hazards persist in the affected areas. Residents and visitors should remain vigilant and adhere to all evacuation and closure orders. Firefighters continue to work on constructing firelines, patrolling, and monitoring for hotspots. Damage and structure assessments are ongoing, and crews are prepared to respond to any new starts or flare-ups. The Village of Ruidoso, with the Mayor, Village Council, and County, will begin the re-entry process for local, full-time residents on Monday at 8:00 AM. Second homeowners and tourists are asked to wait.

Fire Activity

The widespread precipitation on Friday resulted in minimal fire behavior. However, conditions are expected to improve on Saturday, allowing crews to resume fire suppression efforts. The fire remains active, especially in heavy duff and dead/down fuels, and smoke will continue to be present. Hazards such as fire-weakened trees and damaged infrastructure are still significant concerns.

Weather Outlook

A high-pressure system moving in on Saturday will bring less humidity, warmer temperatures, and scattered clouds. Expect sunny mornings with light winds and scattered thunderstorms in the early afternoons throughout the weekend.

Smoke Information

Light smoke was observed on both fires on Friday. Smoke production is expected to remain light to moderate on Saturday. Variable wind directions may lead to fluctuating air quality around the fire areas. For more detailed information, visit wildland fire smoke outlook.

Evacuations and Road Closures

Mandatory evacuation orders remain in effect for several areas. For detailed evacuation information, visit Lincoln County NM and Ruidoso NM. Road and trail closures are in effect, including closures on Highway 48 and Highway 70 at Apache Summit. The only open evacuation route is Highway 70 to Roswell. Detailed closure information is available at South Fork Fire Emergency Closure Order.

Additional Information

A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in place over the fire area. For more information, visit TFR FAA. Drone flights are prohibited within this area to ensure the safety of air operations.

For more updates and detailed information, visit Inciweb.

Attachments:

Stay informed and stay safe. Thank you for your cooperation as we work together to manage and mitigate these fires.

South Fork and Salt Fire Daily Update: June 22, 2024