Encerrita Fire Wednesday Evening Fire Update

Grants, NM – The Encerrita Fire was more active today due to gusty winds from the south resulting in the closure of Highway 53 south of Grants. The fire made a wind-driven run to the north that bumped the south side of the highway this afternoon. Fire is burning along the edge of the highway and those areas are also experiencing heavy smoke. Highway 53 is closed from mile markers 71 to 73 until further notice. The fire has not crossed the highway and there is no imminent threat to Grants or any other communities. 

Today’s high winds were associated with the frontal passage that will occur tonight. Another period of wind is expected from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. tonight, but that will bring higher overnight humidity and the possibility of overcast skies and precipitation in the coming days, which will temper fire activity.