.Bill Knight shared this MODIS image from 1:15 a.m. today showing where the Thompson Ridge Fire has increased overnight. Courtesy photo

Thompson Ridge Fire Update – June 4 at 10:30 a.m.

Acres: 4,451 Start date: May 31, 2013
Cause: Under Investigation Location: 10 miles north of Jemez
Containment: 5 percent Fuels: Mixed conifer and Ponderosa pine
Terrain: Steep, rugged Resources: 14 crews, 32 engines, 4 water tenders, 2 dozers
Total personnel: 591 Available air support: 5 helicopters

Summary: Today firefighters again expect extreme fire behavior due to the continued warm weather, windy conditions and low humidity. Ground crews will have their work cut out for them as they work to strengthen containment lines and protect structures at risk. Smoke plumes may start around noon today due to winds driving the fire. Smoke will continue to impact surrounding communities. Similar conditions can be expected for the next couple of days.

***A public meeting is scheduled tonight for the Thompson Ridge Fire beginning at 7:45 p.m. The meeting will be held at the Madonna Parish Hall in Jemez Springs, New Mexico, located off of Highway 4, between mile markers 15 and 16. New Mexico Lieutenant Governor John Sanchez will be in attendance.

Evacuations: An evacuation order remains in effect for Thompson Valley, Rancho de la Cueva and Elk Valley.

Smoke: Smoke from the Thompson Ridge Fire is evident in several communities. Communities in the region will be impacted by that smoke and that from other fires in the area. Smoke sensitive persons in these areas need to be alert to this possibility and be prepared to take any necessary precautions. For more smoke information and air quality forecasts, please visit the New Mexico Environment Department’s website at http://state.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acd822eb860d4f1f039ccb48f&id=7f3972ffc2&e=a9bee56c9d and http://state.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acd822eb860d4f1f039ccb48f&id=223ab7fd7b&e=a9bee56c9d.

Road and Fire Area Closure: The Valle Grande Staging Area is open to the public. All other points of entry to the Valles Caldera preserve are closed to public access due to fire activity.

Open and active: Communities in and around the Santa Fe National Forest remain open and accessible including Jemez Springs, Jemez Pueblo, Santa Clara Pueblo, Los Alamos and Bandelier National Monument. Camping, hiking and other recreational opportunities are available in the area.