EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — The Trout Fire, burning in the Gila National Forest north of Silver City, is now estimated at 46,359 acres with 11 percent containment, according to the fire incident command team on Saturday, June 21.
The fire team reported 11 percent containment on Friday also.
The fire is burning 12 miles north of Silver City. It started on June 12 and the cause remains under investigation.
At times, the fire has shown explosive growth, but that slowed overnight, fire officials said.
Currently, there are 1,371 firefighters battling the blaze.
Overnight, firefighters continued to work securing line and using drones with infrared systems to identify hot spots along New Mexico Highway 35, fire officials said.
“The southwest side of the fire showed active fire behavior. Retardant dropped by aircraft yesterday was instrumental in moderating the fire, located behind Signal Peak. Firefighters built out additional contingency lines and reinforced lines around the perimeter of the fire,” fire officials said in their update.
Saturday, crews will continue on their work from Friday on the fire’s north and northwest side. They will continue to address residual heat and shore up the perimeter around residences and valued assets, fire officials said.
Contingency lines are in place along the southeastern side of the fire, where firefighters are continuing to directly attack the blaze.
Firefighters are actively engaged in trying to hold the fire north of Signal Peak Road. Residences on the northern edges of the Pinos Altos area should use caution due to firefighters entering the area to continue work.
Aviation will continue its support of the firefighters on the ground with retardant drops and water bucket drops throughout the day.
Evacuations as of 9 p.m. Friday:
GO (Level 3) – Zones 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 10, 11, 12, 26
SET (Level 2) – Zones 8, 9, 14B, 16, 27
READY (Level 1) – Zones 14A, 15B, 28, 29
You can access an interactive evacuation map by clicking here.
The Red Cross has established an evacuation shelter at the Grant County Convention Center, 3031 US Highway 180 in Silver City.
High Desert Humane Society will accommodate pets, and the rodeo grounds at the Southwest Horseman’s Association are open to receive livestock.
Material donations can only be accepted by the Salvation Army. Donations may be dropped off from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Silver City Recreation Center, 1016 N. Silver St. in Silver City.
Financial donations are accepted by the American Red Cross and Salvation Army.
Sunny skies are expected in the morning, becoming partly cloudy by afternoon. Gusty southwest winds may reach up to 25 mph.
Detailed smoke information can be found by clicking here.
Information on road closures can be found by clicking here.
Temporary flight restrictions are in place so firefighters can do their work. You can find out more here.
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