EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — Hot, dry temperatures caused the fire burning near Silver City, New Mexico, to grow on Monday, prompting changes to evacuation levels, fire officials said on Tuesday, June 17.
Fire officials said the Trout Fire has now grown to 24,706 acres, as it remained active on Monday, particularly on the east and south flanks.
Crews are bracing for increased fire activity, and the public should expect potential additional changes to evacuation status, fire crews said.
“Overnight, crews conducted firing operations to protect property and hold established firelines. Additional personnel and resources have arrived to boost suppression efforts and support both day and nighttime shifts. Firefighters are working in round-the-clock rotations to stay ahead of changing conditions,” read the news release by fire officials.
Fire officials said that on Tuesday, firefighters may conduct firing operations if fire activity dictates on the north and west sides of the fire, build direct handlines along the fire’s edge, reinforce dozer lines, and identify roads and natural features to serve as control lines.
These tactical firing operations are used to reduce available fuels and create buffers that help protect infrastructure, homes, and other values at risk, fire officials added.
Fire officials said firefighting resources are seeking opportunities to prevent additional growth along the south edge of the fire.
Aerial resources will assist with water and retardant drops as conditions allow, but increasing wind and ongoing Red Flag Warnings may limit aircraft use for safety, fire officials said.
Additionally, crews will reinforce the progress made during Monday’s operations by removing unburned fuels between control lines and the fire when it is safe to do so. These efforts help reduce the fire’s growth potential and increase protection for nearby communities and infrastructure, fire officials said.
Evacuations are as follows, according to fire officials:
- GO (Level 3) – Zones 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6; SET (Level 2) – Zone 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12. Additional evacuation areas will be identified as the situation evolves
- The Red Cross has established an evacuation shelter at the Grant County Convention Center (3031 U.S. 180). High Desert Humane Society will accommodate pets, and the rodeo grounds at the Southwest Horseman’s Association are open to receive livestock.
The Gila National Forest has issued a closure order for the area.
Stage 2 Fire Restrictions are also in place, and a Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in effect.
The fire started on Thursday, June 12, and the cause remains under investigation.
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