August 23, 2023 
Start Date / Time: August 3, 2023
Cause: Lightning
Size: 603
Containment: 0%
Location: Northeast of Capitan, located on West Mountain in the Capitan Mountain Range.
Fire Strategy: Confine and Contain
Resources: 1 Handcrew, 1 Wildland Fire Module (WFM), 3 engines, 2 dozers, 2 masticators, 1 water tender. Total personnel:90
Fire behavior: Low/Moderate fire behavior.
Types of vegetation in the area (aka fuels): Pinyon pine, juniper, mixed conifer
Values at risk: No structures or communities are at immediate risk.
Update: 90 firefighters and other support personnel will continue with their confine-and-contain strategy on the West Mountain Fire, a lightning-caused wildfire northeast of Capitan.
The intended result of managing naturally-caused wildfires is to reduce hazardous fuels, encourage the growth of native plants, increase species diversity, and restore ecological balance. Ultimately, this can help reduce the potential for future high-severity wildfires.
Today, rain occurred over the fire area, affecting operations. Ongoing operations are dependent on the changing weather systems. Crews remain on-scene to ensure hotspots are monitored and the wildfire remains within the intended parameters. Conditions are continually evaluated for firefighter safety and operational effectiveness.
Smoke: Smoke will be visible in coming days as the fire continues to progress across the landscape. Smoke will be heavier in the mornings as it settles into lower elevation and will lift as temperatures increase. Smoke will be visible along HWY 246, and from the communities of Capitan and Ruidoso.
Visitor Information: Visitors are advised to stay out of the fire area to allow for firefighters to quickly and safely access the fire. Hunters and recreators are advised to use precautions in the area. Expect to see smoke and related activity along HWY 246 outside of Capitan.
Evacuations: None
Road Closures: None
Major Injuries/Fatalities: None
More Information:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/westmountainfire2023 Twitter: @LincolnUSForest
Inciweb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/incident-information/nmlnf-west-mountain Other: www.NMFireInfo.com
Updates will be released daily to inform the public.
NM Fire Info 
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