View of the Deer Canyon Fire burning this afternoon south of Mountainair. Courtesy/NMFD
New Mexico Forestry Division News:
The Deer Canyon Fire was discovered at 4 p.m. today, June 20 in the Deer Canyon subdivision south of Mountainair. The fire is exhibiting extreme behavior, is active and crowning in piñon-juniper and grass fuels.
Crews are providing point protection, and air resources are on scene providing support. Structures are threatened, and evacuations are in place.
The fire is estimated at 350 acres and is zero percent contained.
Evacuations/Shelters:
- Evacuations are in place for Deer Canyon Road between Daklugie Trail and Jumano Trail. A shelter has been established at 106 North Sunset, Mountainair. An animal shelter has been established at the Mountainair rodeo grounds, NM 107, Mountainair.
Weather:
- 100 degrees, 10 percent RH, south winds at 15 mph with gusts to 22 mph. Tonight, patchy smoke after midnight. Mostly clear, with a low around 60. West wind 10-15 mph.
Health and safety 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 New Mexico Environmental Public Health Tracking portal and zoom in on the latest smoke conditions on the AirNow Fire and Smoke Map.
Safety:
- The health and safety of firefighters and the public are always the first priority. Information on air quality and protecting your health can be found online at the New Mexico Department of Health Environmental Public Health Tracking website.
- The Forest Stewards Guild offers a HEPA Filter Loan Program that are available on a first come/first served basis. Additional information on air filters and the HEPA loan program is available via Santa Fe Fireshed Coalition.
For information on wildfire prevention and preparedness, click here.