No Containment Yet as Crews Face Challenging Terrain; Cultural Sites May Be at Risk
MT. TAYLOR RANGER DISTRICT, N.M. — The Vereda Blanca Fire, burning in a remote area northeast of Grants near Black Mesa, has grown to 1,000 acres with zero percent containment as of Saturday evening. The wildfire, first reported on August 8 at 7:31 a.m., remains under full suppression strategy, with firefighters working to establish control lines in rugged terrain.
Officials say the cause of the fire is still undetermined. The blaze has spread off the mesa into drainage areas on both the north and south flanks, complicating ground operations. Fire behavior remains moderate, but hot, dry conditions and increased winds have led to short-range spotting and expanded acreage.
Crews from the U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and contracted teams are on scene, with additional engines, hand crews, and aerial resources en route. A Type 3 Incident Commander is scheduled to assume command of the fire on Monday, August 11.
No Evacuations, But Cultural Sites May Be at Risk
There are currently no evacuations in effect, and the fire is not threatening any communities. However, officials note that cultural sites in the area may be at risk. The fire is burning through pinyon-juniper and ponderosa pine fuels.
Public Safety and Air Operations
Authorities are urging the public to avoid the fire area for safety reasons. The use of drones near wildfires remains a serious concern, as unauthorized flights can halt aerial firefighting operations. “If you fly, we can’t,” officials reminded.
Smoke and Weather Conditions
Smoke from the Vereda Blanca Fire may be visible west of Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Cuba, and Jemez. Residents can monitor smoke conditions using the interactive map at fire.airnow.gov.
The weather forecast for Grants includes scattered showers and thunderstorms after 3 p.m. on Sunday, with a high near 91°F and northwest winds up to 15 mph. Monday is expected to be sunny with similar temperatures and shifting winds.
