Fire Information: (575) 388-8300
The Signal Fire is currently 5,740 acres and 25% contained
Possible burnout operations may occur over the next few days to help prevent the fire from spreading to the northeast and east. Expect to see smoke. Alerts will be sent out when the burnout operation begins.
*A public meeting will be held at the Roundup Lodge, 91 Acklin Hill Rd, in San Lorenzo at 6 p.m. tonight. At the conclusion of this meeting a presentation will be offered to interested individuals who would like to learn how to use Google Earth to track wildfire progression now and for future incidents.
Yesterday’s Actions: Crews continued to improve and mop up the west flank, increasing the contained portion of the burn to 25%. Line construction along the north and east sides was ongoing in preparation for possible burnout operations. On the southeast and south flanks, firefighters were building containment lines near the fire’s edge. Structure protection personnel monitored fire line improvements near private structures on the south flank of the fire.
Today’s Actions: Strategy for this fire is full suppression. Crews will continue mop up on the northwest flank of the fire, and build lines on the northeast and east sides (near Skates Canyon) in preparation for burnout operations. On the southeast (near Allie Canyon) and south sides, firefighters will continue to build direct line. Mop up and patrol will continue on the southwest flank. Structure protection personnel will be preparing for the protection of historic Allie Cabin and begin structure assessments along Hwy 35 in the Mimbres Valley. Aircraft will support firefighters by dropping retardant and water to allow ground forces to continue with suppression activities. Firefighter and public safety remain the number one concern on the fire. In addition fire managers are monitoring values at risk which include; wildlife habitat and cultural resources.
Weather: Today will be mostly sunny, with temperatures ranging from 62 to 70 degrees. Minimum relative humidity is predicted to be 9% to 13% with variable winds gusting up to 15 mph by the afternoon. Temperatures are expected to continue to increase over the next few days. Critical fire weather conditions are possible over the weekend and into next week.
State Highway 15 reopened to the public on Wednesday, May 14, 2014.
Silver City, Pinos Altos, Gila Cliff Dwellings and local special events are NOT being impacted by the Signal Fire.
Information for this fire, including maps and photos, can be found at:
