Evacuations in Place as South Fork and Salt Fires Continue to Grow

With zero percent containment, extreme fire behavior, and challenging weather conditions, firefighters are working "tirelessly" to protect homes and structures. It's been reported that one person has lost their life from the fires and over 1400 structures have been lost. 

According to information from the Village of Ruidoso, the South Fork Fire has burned 16,335 acres, while the Salt Fire has consumed 7,071 acres since both fires started on June 17.

Currently, 254 personnel are on the ground, utilizing a variety of resources including crews, heavy equipment, engines, helicopters, and air tankers.

Today, June 19, Southwest Area Team 5, led by Incident Commander Dave Gesser, assumed command of the firefighting efforts. Extreme fire behavior, including crowning and long-range spotting, was observed on Tuesday. Air resources conducted water and retardant drops, working in conjunction with ground crews to construct fire lines around structures. Firefighters also secured a spot fire on the South Fork Fire.

Fire crews will continue building fire lines on both fires, supported by ongoing water and retardant drops from the air. Changing wind directions and potential afternoon thunderstorms are expected to create challenging conditions. Additional firefighting resources are arriving and will be briefed before joining the efforts.

Weather forecasts indicate strong southwest winds shifting to the east/southeast, bringing Gulf moisture into the Sacramento Mountains. Afternoon showers and thunderstorms are expected east of the fire area, with temperatures in the mid to high 80s and winds of 10-20 mph. A flash flood warning has also been placed in effect. 

Evacuations remain in place, with the Mescalero Apache Reservation under a State of Emergency. The village of Ruidoso and the City of Ruidoso Downs are in “GO” evacuation status, and several additional areas including Fantasy Lane, Summit area, Botella Road, Snow Springs, Fence Canyon, Whitetail, and Chihuahua Well have evacuation orders. Road closures are also in effect.