We have an update on the fire near Pinos Altos being called the Rico Fire. Overnight the fire acreage increased to over 300 acres and there was low fire behavior. Pinos Altos townsite and surrounding homes are under an evacuation notice. A map will be available later this morning.
The Rico fire started approximately 1.5 miles northwest of Pinos Altos on BLM land, cause unknown.
The Grant County Emergency Manager opened an evacuation center at the Grant County Business and Conference Center located at 3031 Highway 180 East. The Red Cross is managing the evacuation site location.
Small evacuated animals should be taken to the High Desert Humane Society at 3050 Cougar Way, Silver City. Large animals such as horses can be taken to the Southwest Horsemen’s arena.
Seven fire engines initially responded supported by air resources, including two Very Large Air Tankers, one Large Air Tanker, and two Single Engine Air Tankers. The Lolo Hotshots, Redding Hotshots, and Zuni Hotshots have responded to the fire along with two additional fire engines from Reserve. The overall general report is that the Hot Shot crews are making progress. As we know more, we will let you know.
