New Fire Start Near Tres Ritos, NM (Updated)

Fire crews responded to a report of a fire off Highway 518 and near Tres Ritos, N.M. at approximately 11:48 a.m. Upon arrival, local department personnel saw flames rapidly moving uphill in mixed conifer stands on Carson National Forest. 

Fire behavior and spread moderated greatly by late afternoon. Called the La Junta Fire, it’s size is estimated to be 5 to 8 acres with 0 percent containment. Crews have cut line around a portion of the fire and will continue work late into the evening, returning Saturday morning. 

Tonight’s weather is forecasted to drop to 29-33 degrees with overnight humidity of 34-38 percent, according to a National Weather Service Spot forecast for the fire’s location. On Saturday, temperatures are forecasted to rise to 58-62 degrees with a low humidity of 15-20 percent. West winds are predicted be 5 to 8 mph both tonight and tomorrow. 

There are no evacuations or closures associated with the La Junta Fire. Its cause is under investigation. 

Local fire personnel responded to the fire, including from Peñasco, Picuris Pueblo Fire, Colfax County, Mora County and the Bureau of Land Management.

Updates will be posted to InciWeb. 

Original Post

Fire crews are on scene of the La Junta Fire off Highway 518 and near Tres Ritos, NM. The approximately 5- to 8-acre fire is displaying moderate fire behavior and is moving with a low to moderate rate of spread.

There are no evacuations at this time. The cause is under investigation.

Crews from local agencies have been assisting, including Peñasco Volunteer Fire Department, Picuris Pueblo, Angel Fire Fire Department and Mora County.

(Photo: La Junta Fire on Nov. 3, 2023)