Ruidoso Fire Update: Staying Informed and Taking Action

The Ruidoso Fire

What is the Ruidoso Fire?

The Ruidoso Fire is a wildfire that ignited near Ruidoso, New Mexico, on April 6, 2023. Fueled by strong winds and dry conditions, the fire quickly spread, prompting evacuations and threatening homes and businesses.

Current Situation

As of April 12, 2023, the Ruidoso Fire has burned over 100,000 acres and is still actively burning. Containment lines have been established around 40% of the fire, and firefighters are making progress in extinguishing it. However, high winds and low humidity continue to challenge containment efforts.

Evacuations

Mandatory evacuations remain in place for several areas near the fire, including the communities of Ruidoso, Alto, and Bonito. Residents in these areas should follow the instructions of local authorities and evacuate immediately.

Road Closures

Numerous roads in the Ruidoso area are closed due to the fire. These closures include:

• Highway 70 between Ruidoso and Alto
• Highway 37 between Ruidoso and Lincoln
• Highway 244 between Nogal and Alto

Air Quality

Smoke from the fire is affecting air quality in the Ruidoso area. Residents should stay indoors as much as possible and wear masks when outside.

Assistance for Fire Victims

The American Red Cross has set up shelters for fire victims at:

• The Ruidoso Convention Center (707 Mechem Dr., Ruidoso, NM)
• The Mescalero Community Center (213 Tribal Cir., Mescalero, NM)

How You Can Help

There are several ways you can help fire victims:

• Donate to the American Red Cross or other reputable charities.
• Volunteer your time at a local shelter or fire station.
• Call or text your friends and family in the area to check on their well-being.

Stay Informed

For the latest updates on the Ruidoso Fire, please visit the following websites:

• NM Fire Info: https://nmfireinfo.com/
• Lincoln County Emergency Management: https://www.co.lincoln.nm.us/departments/emergency-management
• Ruidoso Village Police Department: https://www.villageofruidoso.com/departments/police

Recovery and Rebuilding

Once the fire is extinguished, the recovery and rebuilding process will begin. This will include clearing debris, repairing damaged homes and businesses, and restoring infrastructure.

Transition to Recovery

As the Ruidoso Fire is brought under control, the focus will shift from emergency response to recovery and rebuilding. Here are the steps involved in this transition:

1. Assessment and Damage Evaluation

Once the fire is out, officials will assess the damage and determine the extent of the recovery effort needed. This includes identifying damaged homes, businesses, and infrastructure.

2. Debris Removal and Clean-up

Crews will begin removing debris from the affected areas, including burned structures, trees, and other hazardous materials.

3. Rebuilding and Repair

Homes, businesses, and infrastructure will be repaired or rebuilt. This process may take several months or even years, depending on the extent of the damage.

4. Community Support and Recovery

Government agencies, non-profit organizations, and community members will provide support to fire victims, including financial assistance, counseling, and other services.

Stories and Lessons Learned

Story 1: The Importance of Evacuating Early

During the Ruidoso Fire, many residents were forced to evacuate their homes quickly. Those who evacuated early were able to escape the fire safely. However, some residents hesitated to leave, which put them in danger.

Lesson Learned: Evacuate immediately when ordered to do so by local authorities. Don't wait until it's too late.

Story 2: The Power of Community

In the aftermath of the Ruidoso Fire, community members came together to support each other. Volunteers provided food and shelter to fire victims, and neighbors helped to clean up debris.

Lesson Learned: Community support is essential during and after a disaster. Be willing to help your neighbors in need.

Story 3: The Importance of Fire Preparedness

The Ruidoso Fire is a reminder of the importance of being prepared for a wildfire. Residents should create an evacuation plan, assemble an emergency kit, and familiarize themselves with fire safety practices.

Lesson Learned: Take steps now to prepare for a wildfire in your community.

Tips and Tricks

• Create and practice an evacuation plan with your family.
• Assemble an emergency kit that includes food, water, first aid supplies, and important documents.
• Hardern your home against fire by clearing brush and vegetation away from your property and installing fire-resistant roofing and siding.
• Stay informed about fire danger in your area and follow the instructions of local authorities.
• If you see a wildfire, report it immediately to the fire department.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don't wait until it's too late to evacuate. Leave immediately when ordered to do so.
• Don't try to fight a wildfire on your own. Leave it to the professionals.
• Don't return to your home until it has been declared safe by local authorities.

How to Stay Informed

To stay informed about the Ruidoso Fire, follow these steps:

1. Visit the NM Fire Info website (https://nmfireinfo.com/).
2. Sign up for email alerts from the Lincoln County Emergency Management office (https://www.co.lincoln.nm.us/departments/emergency-management).
3. Follow the Ruidoso Police Department on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/RuidosoPD/).
4. Listen to local news stations for updates.

Tables

Table 1: Ruidoso Fire Statistics

Table 2: Evacuation Shelters

Table 3: Ways to Help Fire Victims