Lightning Passes of the Manzano Mountains

Lightning Passes of the Manzano Mountains

Mountainair, NM – June 24, 2008: The Mountainair Ranger District had several fires spark up this morning following a lightning storm that passed through the area last night. All fires are less than ½ acre.

Fourth of July Fire: The first fire, the Fourth of July Fire, is burning approximately 2 miles north of Forest Road 55 and about ½ mile southeast of the Isleta Indian Reservation. There are currently 8 fire personnel on scene of this fire. Air attack assisted in the initial size-up of the fire then guided firefighters into the fire. One Single Engine Air Tanker dropped approximately 800 gallons of retardant on the fire to slow its progress as crews were in route to the fire. Crews are currently working on lining the perimeter of the fire.

Big Springs Fire: The second smoke report also came in this morning for the Big Spring area of the Manzano Mountains. One engine crew is currently gridding this area, but smoke has not been visible on this fire since early this morning. Crews will continue searching for this fire until it is found or the area has been deemed safe.

Trigo Fire: A third fire is reported and believed to also be a lightning strike within the Trigo Fire perimeter. The single tree is within the black area of the Trigo fire and not posing any threats at this time. Members of the Cibola SWFF Crew are on scene of this fire and will remain on scene until this smoke is extinguished.

For further fire information please contact the Mountainair Ranger District at 505-847-2990.

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