Naranjo Fire Update, July 9, 2019

Start date: July 1, 2019

Cause: Lightning

Size: 64 acres

Location: Cuba Ranger District on the Santa Fe National Forest approximately 2 miles southeast of Regina, NM, off of NM State Highway 96

Containment: 0%

Fuel: Ponderosa pine

Weather: A warming trend will continue through at least Wednesday with an increasingly hot, dry and unstable atmosphere, although with light winds. Temperatures will be between 83-88 degrees, with southwest winds around 5 mph shifting to the west in the afternoon. Humidity is 6-10%.

Resources on scene: Type 3 organization, 111 personnel, one type 1 crew, two type 2IA crews, one type 3 engine, two dozers, one type 3 helicopter, four UTVs and two ATVs

Situation:  Yesterday, firefighters were successful with strengthening the fire containment lines on the southeastern side of the fire area using ground firing operations.

Today, firefighters will continue firing operations, including aerial ignitions within the containment lines. Fire behavior will increase due to hotter and drier conditions. Smoke will be visible from US Highway 550, NM Highway 96, and the communities of Cuba, Regina and La Jara.

Fire managers are managing the Naranjo Fire for multiple resource benefits, including improved forest health, reduced fuel loadings and improved wildlife habitat for elk and deer. Naturally occurring fires like the Naranjo Fire that burn with lower intensity under favorable conditions help reintroduce fire to fire-dependent forest ecosystems.

Smoke-sensitive individuals and people with respiratory problems or heart disease are encouraged to take precautionary measures. Information on air quality and protecting your health by using the 5-3-1 visibility method can be found online at the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) Environmental Public Health Tracking (EPHT) website at https://nmtracking.org/fire. People with health concerns can also call NMDOH at 505-827-0006 for additional information.  For information on the HEPA filter loan program, go to https://facnm.org/smoke#smokeanchor5.

Fire updates are posted on the New Mexico Fire Information website at www.nmfireinfo.com, www.facebook.com/SantaFeNF and Twitter @SantafeNF.  For additional information about the prescribed burn, please contact the Cuba Ranger District at 575-289-3264.

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