Middle Mesa Fire Update – Aug. 6

Southwest Area Complex Incident Management Team 3 Takes Command of Middle Mesa Fire 

Acres: 3,213 
Start Date: August 1, 2025 
Location: 22 mi. west of Dulce, NM 
Cause: Lightning 
Personnel: 157 
Fuels: Timber and brush 
Containment: 0% 
Resources:   3 crews | 19 engines | 3 helicopters |  4 bulldozers |  2 Water Tenders

Highlights: Southwest Area CIMT 3 took command of the Middle Mesa Fire Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at 6:00 a.m. The team is working closely with the Carson National Forest to ensure protection of critical values in the area of the fire, including oil and gas infrastructure, cultural resources, range infrastructure, and private and tribal lands. 

Operations: Today resources continue with their full suppression strategy using both indirect and direct tactics across the perimeter. Firefighters continue with burning operations along the southeast side within Carracas Canyon. On the north side, the fire is holding along Forest Road 218A, but resources remain engaged patrolling and mopping up any lingering heat in that area. Additional aircraft is on order for today to support ground operations. Aircraft and ground operations work in tandem to slow the fire’s spread and progression and ultimately help with containment efforts. Tonight, a night shift will scout for opportunities to conduct firing operations when it’s safe and the weather is conducive to do so. 

Weather: Mostly sunny then becoming partly cloudy with high temperatures up to 91. A risk of isolated mix of wet/dry storms continues through Thursday with the potential for gusty and erratic winds. 

Smoke: For smoke information:  https://www.env.nm.gov/air-quality/fire-smoke-links/

Closures: There are no forest closures in effect. However, out of public and firefighter safety the public is urged not to go into the fire area. 

Evacuations: For evacuation information: https://www.rio-arriba.org/departments_and_divisions/sheriff.html

Safety: Drivers should use caution when traveling near the fire area. Drivers are asked to be mindful of firefighting equipment and resources around the fire area. As activity increases throughout the afternoon, smoke may impact nearby roads. Drivers should use caution when traveling around the fire aera.