Cummings Fire – Torrance County

March 9, 2026

The New Mexico Forestry Division would like to update you on a wildfire that is requiring the attention of suppression resources in New Mexico.  

Cummings Fire 

Update: The Cummings Fire was discovered at 4:27 p.m. on Monday, March 9 east of Moriarty in Torrance County. Multiple structures are threatened and smoke is visible from Interstate 40 and the surrounding area. The fire is burning in grass and brush and is active on multiple sides. Response crews are providing point protection for surrounding structures while working to contain the fire’s progress. The public should take caution and avoid the area. Currently, the Cummings fire is estimated at 50 acres and is zero percent contained.  The cause of the fire is under investigation.  

Evacuations / Closures: Homes in the immediate area have been evacuated.  

Public Safety: The public should take caution and avoid the area so that first responders may work unimpeded.  

Weather: Currently 63 degrees F, 16% RH, southwest winds at 11 mph.  

Smoke: Individuals sensitive to wildfire smoke should take precautions and use the New Mexico Department of Health 5-3-1 Visibility Method to determine if it’s safe to be outside. Learn more at https://nmtracking.doh.nm.gov/environment/air/FireAndSmoke.html An interactive smoke map at https://fire.airnow.gov/ allows you to zoom into your area to see the latest smoke conditions. 

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Acres: 50 estimated. 

Containment: 0% contained.      

Start Date/ Time: 4:27 p.m. on Monday, March 9 

Fuels: Grass, brush. 

Cause: Under investigation. 

Location: East of Moriarty, Torrance County. 

Ownership: State and private 

Structure Threat: Multiple structures threatened.  

Resources: Multiple resources from state, county, and municipality.                                                          

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George Ducker, Prevention & Communications Manager

New Mexico State Forestry Division – EMNRD

george.ducker@emnrd.nm.gov