Two wildfires, the South Fork Fire and Salt Fire, continue to burn in Ruidoso, New Mexico. The fires have caused significant damage and forced the evacuation of thousands of people since their start on June 17. According to reports from various sources, approximately 1,400 structures have been lost due to the fires.
The causes of both fires remain under investigation. One fatality has been reported in relation to the South Fork Fire; Patrick Pearson, a 60-year-old man was found dead on the side of the road near the Swiss Chalet Motel during this fire.
Both fires are burning on Mescalero Tribal and U.S. Forest Service land, as well as areas around Ruidoso. The Complex Incident Management Team is managing both fires.
Heavy rain and flash flooding hit the Ruidoso area on June 20, causing debris, ash, and hail to flow through Cedar Creek. This rainstorm will help control the fires but they are still expected to continue for several days.
The South Fork Fire has burned over 16,000 acres and destroyed around 1,400 structures. The Salt Fire has grown to about 5,200 acres.
Ruidoso residents were ordered to evacuate due to the nearby wildfires. All roads into Ruidoso are closed and state police are barricading entry points. Evacuation centers have been set up at the Inn of the Mountain Gods and Eastern New Mexico University at Roswell.
The New Mexico Forestry Division could not immediately identify the cause of either fire, but officials urged residents to remain calm and heed authorities' instructions.
Ruidoso is a high-risk area due to its thick forests surrounding the town. The village has worked with local, state, and federal authorities on a wildfire protection plan since being deemed a high-risk area in 2000.