EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — The Trout Fire, burning north of Silver City in the Gila National Forest, has nearly doubled in size, fire officials reported on Saturday morning, June 14.
The Trout Fire is now estimated to be 3,910 acres in size and remains 0 percent contained, fire officials reported.
Management of the fire also was transferred to larger command team as of 6 a.m. Saturday.
Nearly 300 fire personnel are on scene fighting the fire, which started on Thursday, June 12. The cause remains under investigation.
During the day Friday, firefighters worked on securing the fire on the west side of New Mexico Highway 15.
Helicopters and aircraft delivered retardant and water to help slow the fire’s advance, fire officials said. Heavy equipment reopened lines used during past fires to create firelines in all directions around the fire.
“Priorities are protecting private residences in Lake Roberts and Mimbres, agricultural infrastructure, endangered species habitats, and both recreation and cultural values,” fire officials said in their update.
Hot temperatures are expected to continue through the week ahead with very low humidity and fuel moisture. As a result, fire conditions will remain elevated into much of next week. Winds will be relatively light until Monday and Tuesday when 10- to 20-mph winds are forecasted.
The public is asked to avoid New Mexico highways 15 and 35 due to the large volume of firefighter traffic and limited entry and exit options for area residents.
Smoke is widely visible around Grant County during peak fire activity. Smoke impacts can be expected in the Mimbres and Sapillo valleys and other low-lying areas, especially overnight and during early morning hours.
For real-time smoke conditions, click here.
Grant County Sheriff’s Office and New Mexico State Police issued an evacuation order for private lands at the western end of New Mexico Highway 35, from the Highway 15/35 intersection east to Sapillo Campground. Private lands east of Sapillo Campground remain in “Set” mode under the Ready, Set, Go program.
The Gila National Forest has issued a closure order for all developed recreation sites along Highway 35 and a swath of Highway 15, as well as adjacent National Forest System lands.
A temporary flight restriction is in effect within a 7-mile radius of the fire area to allow firefighters to do their work.
Stage 2 Fire Restrictions are in place on the Gila National Forest. For full details, click here.
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