Update 1: Friday, May 12, 2023
Photo credit: CHET VFD
A new wildfire was reported by Fire Officials on the Las Tusas Fire, which is located about 10 miles north of Las Vegas, New Mexico in the Las Vegas District, started on May 10th (some are saying it started on May 11th) from an unknown cause. We have reached out to the NM Forestry Division for the exact date.
The cause is under investigation.
About 969 acres of tall grass, timber, and brush have been destroyed. There is a 0% containment status at this time.
Fire behavior has been observed as extreme with wind-driven runs, torching, and short-range spotting.
Evacuations have been lifted. The orders had impacted 492 individuals and 165 residences. After an initial assessment conducted by the local Sheriff’s Department, they found three residential structures as being lost, along with 10 outbuildings.
Road closures have also been lifted.
About 200 total personnel along with three Hotshot crews, 1 Type 2 IA Handcrew, four dozers, 18 engines, five water tenders, two Type 3 Helicopters, and an overhead team.
There have been about $400,000 in cost-to-date expenses for fire suppression and containment efforts.
The fire is being managed by the Northern New Mexico Type 3 IMT which assumed command on May 11th at 0600 hours
(c) 2023 NW Fire Blog
NW Fire Blog 