- Deadly Wildfires: Two fatalities and over 1,400 structures destroyed in southern New Mexico.
- Mass Evacuations: Around 8,000 residents evacuated from Ruidoso due to rapidly spreading fires.
- Disaster Declaration: Governor requests federal aid as fires burn over 23,000 acres amidst a three-decade drought.
Wildfires in southern New Mexico have claimed two lives and destroyed more than 1,400 homes and structures, prompting the evacuation of around 8,000 residents from the mountain resort community of Ruidoso.The fires, driven by nearly three decades of drought, have been particularly destructive and fast-moving.
New Mexico Wildfires Devastate Ruidoso, Prompt Federal Disaster Request
Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has requested a major disaster declaration from President Joe Biden as the South Fork and Salt fires continue to burn over 23,000 acres. This comes on the heels of New Mexico experiencing its largest wildfire in history in 2022, which burned over 341,000 acres.
Fueled by nearly three decades of drought, these fires have been particularly intense and destructive. The ongoing dry conditions have made the region more susceptible to severe wildfire outbreaks.
Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has sought a major disaster declaration from President Joe Biden as the South Fork and Salt fires continue to ravage the area. These fires have already burned over 23,000 acres to the north and south of Ruidoso.
In 2022, New Mexico experienced the largest wildfire in the continental United States, which consumed over 341,000 acres. The state’s prolonged drought continues to exacerbate the frequency and severity of these destructive wildfires.
The relentless drought in New Mexico underscores the urgent need for enhanced wildfire prevention and response measures. As the state grapples with increasingly severe and frequent wildfires, comprehensive strategies and federal support are crucial to mitigate the devastating impacts on communities and the environment.
“The prolonged drought in New Mexico has made wildfires more destructive and fast-moving, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced prevention and response measures.” – Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham
