Daily Update: Monday, July 1, 2024 - Severe Flooding Prompts Evacuations
Crews to Assist in Flood Mitigation
As the South Fork and Salt Fires continue to challenge firefighting efforts in the Ruidoso and Mescalero areas, the community faces new threats from severe flooding triggered by recent heavy rains. Today's update underscores the collaborative efforts of emergency crews in mitigating both fire containment and flood risks. Residents and visitors are urged to stay informed through designated emergency contacts and official channels, ensuring preparedness amidst evolving weather conditions. This update provides essential details on the current fire status, safety advisories, closures, and resources available to support community resilience during this challenging time.
Public Information Map, South Fork and Salt Fires, July 1, 2024
Emergency Contacts:
Mescalero Apache Tribe EOC: 575-464-9214 (8 am-6 pm)
Village of Ruidoso and Lincoln County EOC: 575-258-6900 (7am-10pm)
Fire Information Phone: 575-323-8378 or 575-323-8258 (8 am-8 pm)
Media Information Phone: 575-323-8053 (8 am-8 pm)
Email: 2024.southfork@firenet.gov
Fire Information:
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: 690
Containment: South Fork – 84%; Salt – 84%
Fuels: Mixed conifer, grass, pine/juniper
Resources: 16 crews, 3 helicopters, 24 engines, 2 bulldozers, 7 water tenders
Highlights:
Heavy rains on Sunday (2-5") caused severe flash flooding across the fire areas, continuing to pose a threat today. Crews are actively engaged in flood mitigation alongside fire suppression efforts.
Fire Activity:
Recent rains suppressed remaining heat sources; crews focus on charring downed logs within control lines. Structure assessments are near completion; suppression repair is ongoing.
Weather Advisory:
Scattered thunderstorms continue, and afternoon storms are likely to produce more flooding and debris flows. Residents and visitors are advised to monitor weather updates, heed flood watches/warnings, and seek higher ground if possible.
Closures and Restrictions:
South Fork Fire Emergency Closure Order in effect since June 20, 2024, for Smokey Bear Ranger District. Details: www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/lincoln/alerts-notices/?aid=88199
Mescalero Apache Tribe issued Class V/Stage II – Extreme Fire Restriction Notice on June 28, 2024. Details: https://mescaleroapachetribe.com
Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) and drone flight prohibitions over fire area. Visit https://tfr.faa.gov/tfr2/list.html for updates.
Additional Information:
Inciweb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/nmmea-south-fork-and-salt
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SWIMT5
Smoke Outlook: https://outlooks.wildlandfiresmoke.net/outlook/430b2c05
Lincoln County Government: www.lincolncountynm.gov
Mescalero Apache Tribe: https://mescaleroapachetribe.com
Village of Ruidoso: www.ruidoso-nm.gov/south-fork-fire
For ongoing updates and detailed information, please visit the provided links or contact the respective emergency centers. Stay informed and stay safe.
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