Fire Report 070618:
The Owl Fire that started on Saturday, June 30th, located 4 miles northeast of Saddle Mountain in the Gila National Forest, is comprised of 4,100 acres, and utilizing 276 personnel. The fire is burning south of Aspen Mountain near the Flying T trail in an inventoried roadless area. Heavy fuels will continue to hold heat until substantial rainfall over the area.
Crews will continue to prep Horse Mesa for ignitions, continue firing operations on Forest Road 209 and constructing line in Bull Basin to connect line to US Hwy 180. Air resources are assigned to the incident.
Fire behavior has been moderate to extreme, with single tree torching. Fire spread is primarily to the north and east, and visible from Alma, NM, along the US Hwy 180 corridor through Luna, NM. Smoke may also be visible in Alpine, AZ and Rancho Grande Subdivision. The fire received light precipitation yesterday. Fewer storms are expected today through Saturday afternoon. Easterly winds will transport abundant moisture bring an increase in showers and thunderstorms Saturday night and Sunday.
The Gila National Forest has issued Forest Order #06-18-011 Owl Fire Temporary Area Closure Order for firefighter and public safety. All roads and trails in the interior of the boundary described in the Forest Order and indicated on the map are closed effective July 7th with limited exceptions.
Lightening has been determined to be the cause of this fire.
Fire information and maps can be found at nmfireinfo.com
