NMED News:

SANTA FE — The New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) is monitoring air quality in Artesia following a fire and explosion Friday morning at the HF Sinclair Navajo Refinery.

According to the Artesia Police Department, the fire has been extinguished, and all city and county emergency services have cleared the area. The cause of the explosion remains under investigation.

“We’re working closely with local and state partners to see how this fire might affect air quality,” said Cindy Hollenberg, chief of the NMED Air Quality Bureau. “State teams are on the way to Artesia to take a closer look and help support the response. Keeping the community safe and informed is our top priority.”

NMED teams are in route to the scene to further assess conditions and support local response efforts. The department will issue another press release as more information becomes available.

Residents are advised to follow guidance from local emergency officials, including staying indoors and keeping doors and windows closed if smoke is visible in their area. The Artesia Police Department initially reported thick smoke drifting over parts of the city.

NMED continues to evaluate conditions and will share updates through official channels as they are available. Residents are encouraged to follow guidance from local emergency officials.