Wildfires Prompt Evacuations in Ruidoso, New Mexico

June 18, 2024: Wildfires in Ruidoso, a small town in New Mexico, have led to mandatory evacuations and significant emergency response efforts. The South Fork Fire, originating on the Mescalero Apache reservation, has necessitated an expansive evacuation order affecting almost all town residents. The blaze has spread into Lincoln National Forest, and authorities have urged immediate evacuation without attempting to gather belongings.

Key Details:

  • Location: Ruidoso, New Mexico; originating from the Mescalero Apache reservation.
  • Evacuation: Enforced by local authorities, with emergency shelters set up in Roswell, approximately 70 miles east.
  • Impact: Power outages, compromised phone lines, and significant air quality alerts; hot ash threatens neighboring Alto community.
  • Response: New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham stated that state, tribal, and federal officials are actively addressing the fires, praising the efforts of first responders and community support in Roswell.

This event underscores the ongoing challenges faced by communities in wildfire-prone regions.