May 21, 2026 
Northwest Magdalena Mountains
(Albuquerque, NM – May 21, 2026) — Fire crews made significant progress on the Mill Wildfire yesterday utilizing direct extinguishment strategy with ground and aerial resources. Forward progression was stopped using crews constructing handlines supported by helicopter water drops. Pockets of interior fuels continue to burn, and residual smoke may be visible. Fire crews will continue to monitor the fire footprint and mop up as necessary.
Reported start date / Time: May 20, 2026 / 0619
Cause: Undetermined.
Size: 10 acres.
Location: Remote mountainous terrain of Mill Canyon area within western Magdalena Mountains on the Magdalena Ranger District – New Mexico on the Cibola National Forest & National Grasslands.
Smoke may be visible from south of NM60, east of NM107 and south of Magdalena, NM.
Responding Resources: Forest Service Ruby Mountain IHC, Apache Kid Fire Module, Carson E-671, Cibola E-631, Bitterroot E-631 and Type 1 Air Attack Helicopter.
Strategy: Direct extinguishment strategy.
Fuels: Timber, piñon-juniper, grass.
Safety: The health and safety of firefighters and the public are always the first priority. The public is encouraged to avoid the surrounding area so that first responders can continue their efforts.
Weather for Magdalena NM: Today: Mostly sunny, with a high near 76. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph. Tonight: Mostly clear, with a low around 49. Southwest wind around 10 mph. https://www.weather.gov/
This will be the final update on the Mill Fire unless conditions or the situation warrants additional information.
Forest Service photo: Type 1 Air Attack Helicopter on Mill Fire May 20, 2026
NM Fire Info 
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