Wildfire Notification: Tusas Fire (San Miguel County)

April 22, 2026 by GDucker 0 Comments

Update: The Tusas Fire was discovered at approximately 4 p.m. on Wednesday, April 22 near NM 266, mile marker 2.5, west of Sapello in San Miguel County. The fire is burning in timber fuels, torching and making wind-driven runs from the southwest. Structures are threatened, and smoke is visible from N.M. 266 and the surrounding areas. State, local and federal fire crews are responding and utilizing full suppression tactics, including ordering of air resources. Currently, the fire is estimated at 50-75 acres and is zero percent contained. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Evacuations / Closures: Per incident command, residents on NM 266 between mile markers 3-6 are being evacuated, and residents east of mile marker 3 are in Set status. NM 266 is closed at the State Highway 94 junction. Local residents should take caution and avoid the area.

Weather: Currently 76 degrees F, 16% RH, southwest winds at 25 mph with gusts to 35 mph. Tonight, mostly clear with a low around 43 and breezy with a west wind at 15-25 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 nmtracking.doh.nm.gov/environment/air/fireandsmoke.html. An interactive smoke map at fire.airnow.gov allows you to zoom into your area to see the latest smoke conditions.

Acres: 50-75 estimated.

Containment: 0% contained.

Start Date / Time: Approximately 4 p.m. on Wednesday, April 22.

Fuels: Timber, piñon-juniper, grass.

Cause: Under investigation.

Location: West of Sapello in San Miguel County, NM 266, mile marker 2.5.

Ownership: Private.

Structure Threat: Threatened homes evacuated, multiple structures in Set status.

Resources: Forestry Division; volunteer fire department resources from San Miguel County, Gallinas, Spaello and Sheridan; multiple Type-6 engines; Carson IHC hand crew; Mimbres Hand Crew; Pecos River Hand Crew; Wildfire Response Program; multiple air resources.