Mescalero, New Mexico – Residents of the Village of Ruidoso are facing evacuation orders as the South Fork Fire continues to spread. Urgent notices instruct residents to leave their homes immediately, emphasizing that they should prioritize their safety over belongings. The designated evacuation route guides individuals from Sudderth Drive to Highway 70, leading out towards Roswell. The fire originated near Mescalero at South Fork Canyon and has already ravaged over 1,385 acres, as reported by the Village information center.
The Village of Ruidoso has expanded evacuation notices to encompass several nearby areas, prompting residents to leave without delay. Specific regions like Upper Canyon, Brady Canyon, and Ponderosa Heights are among those under a “Go” status, indicating the necessity for immediate evacuation. Establishments such as the Ruidoso Convention Center and Capitan High School have been designated as shelters for evacuees, while pets can seek refuge at the Humane Society of Lincoln County for emergency boarding.
In parallel, the Mescalero Apache Tribe has taken precautions by declaring “Go” status for areas like Snow Springs and Fence Canyon. An evacuation center has been set up at the Community Center to accommodate reservation residents, with provisions made for livestock to be housed at the Mescalero Rodeo Grounds. Tight security measures, including gate guards, have been put in place to manage the evacuation process effectively.
With U.S. Highway 70 closed south of Ruidoso and State Highway 48 also impacted, authorities are advising the public to seek alternative routes and exercise caution. Hot ash sightings in Alto and along Airport Road have led to warnings for residents to report any active fires or ash spots to emergency services promptly. Fire suppression efforts are primarily airborne, as the dangerous conditions prohibit ground-based firefighting activities.
Additionally, Grindstone Lake will be inaccessible on Monday to accommodate fire response aircraft using the lake. The evolving situation underscores the critical need for proactive measures to protect lives and property in the face of the advancing South Fork Fire. Stay informed and prepared for updates through reliable channels to ensure personal safety and well-being during this challenging time.