Two wildfires, named the South Fork Fire and the Salt Fire, have ravaged thousands of acres in New Mexico, leading to mandatory evacuations. These wildfires, discovered on Monday, are burning on tribal land and have prompted urgent action to protect residents and property.

Rapidly Spreading Fires Prompt Evacuations

The South Fork Fire and Salt Fire were both identified on Monday, swiftly growing and necessitating the evacuation of the entire Village of Ruidoso and Ruidoso Downs. These areas are situated approximately two hours southeast of Albuquerque. Dramatic footage shows smoke billowing into the sky, creating a scene reminiscent of orange clouds, as residents watched near their cars. The New Mexico Forestry Division reported that by early Monday evening, the fires had damaged multiple structures, though the exact number remains unknown. The financial toll of the damage has not yet been determined.

Road Closures and Evacuation Routes

In response to the fires, several roads and highways have been closed to ensure public safety. According to announcements from the village, the following routes are currently inaccessible:

• Highway 70: Closed from Highway 244 to the east Reservation line.
• Highway 48: Closed from Alpine Village to State Highway 220.
• Carrizo Canyon Road: Closed to all traffic by state police.

The designated evacuation route directs residents to use Highway 70 and head towards Roswell.

Emergency Shelters and Operations

Several locations have been established to shelter evacuees. The Red Cross has set up an emergency shelter at the ENMU-Roswell gym, with the Godfrey Athletic Center as a secondary option if needed. Additionally, the Lea County Fairgrounds is available, providing stables and RV hookups, though evacuees are asked to contact Fairgrounds Director Wyatt Duncan at 575-333-0252.

Other designated evacuation sites include:

• Capitan High School, Capitan, NM 88316
• Carrizozo High School, 800 D Ave., Carrizozo, NM 88301
• Christ Community Church, 2960 N. Scenic Drive, Alamogordo, NM 88310
• Church on the Move, 901 W. Brasher Road, Roswell, NM 88203
• Church on the Move Dream Center, 2700 W. 2nd St, Roswell, NM 88201
• Eastern New Mexico University, 52 University Blvd., Roswell, NM 88203
• Godfrey Athletic Center, 101 W. College Blvd., Roswell, NM 88201
• Inn of the Mountain Gods, 287 Carrizo Canyon Road, Mescalero, NM 88340

Due to the fires, the Emergency Operations Center for the Ruidoso Fire Department has been relocated to the County Courthouse in Carrizozo. Residents seeking information can contact the center through the following numbers:

• 575-937-7785
• 575-973-5604
• 575-973-8977

As firefighters and emergency personnel continue to combat the wildfires, residents are urged to stay informed and follow evacuation orders to ensure their safety. The situation remains fluid, with updates being provided by local authorities and emergency services.