Capitan, NM (KKOB) – The Seven Cabins fire has been reported to be 46% contained thanks to much needed rain over the weekend in the Capitan Mountains. There are 1073 personnel still on scene which include 41 crews, 49 engines, 7 helicopters, 54 water tenders, and 11 bulldozers.
Today, May 26, firefighters will continue evaluating areas for back-hauling excess supplies and begin conducting suppression repair efforts. These include removing excess cut materials, repairing roads, and fixing fences damaged during suppression efforts. Afternoon thunderstorms are forecast again today, followed by warmer and drier conditions over the next several days.
“Even though we experienced rain across the fire area yesterday, large dead fuels and stump holes are still holding heat and will continue to smolder,” said Stewart Turner, Fire Behavior Analyst.
As of 8 a.m. today (Tuesday) Highway 246 has been opened to traffic meanwhile, a forest closure still exists south of Highway 246, around the Forest Service boundary, and continuing south to the South Base Trail system. Baca campground is included in the closure.
Stage 1 fire restrictions remain in effect. A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in place over the fire to ensure safe access for firefighting aircraft. Fire crews continue working along Highway 246 and advise drivers to drive carefully and remain alert when traveling through the area.
The SET status evacuation north of Highway 246 between mile marker 13 and Boy Scout Mountain is no longer in effect.
