SANTA FE, N.M. — Fire crews continue battling the Frijoles Fire in northern New Mexico after the wildfire expanded into the Pecos Wilderness over the weekend.
Fire officials said the fire pushed northeast Sunday, driven by terrain and available fuels. Crews are now focused on building and strengthening containment lines near Cañon Navajo, the Rio Frijoles, and several nearby communities.
Firefighters have completed contingency lines around Cundiyo and Gorham Scout Ranch and are continuing efforts to protect homes and infrastructure in Frijoles Canyon, Cundiyo, Cerro Piñon, and surrounding areas. Hotshot crews have also completed several miles of containment line south of the Rio Frijoles.
Officials said Team 8 continues to coordinate with the Santa Fe National Forest, New Mexico Forestry Division, Santa Fe County, Rio Arriba County, tribal governments, and local communities as suppression efforts continue.
Evacuation Statuses
Current evacuation notices include:
- GO Status: Camino de Canon in Cundiyo
- SET Status: The remainder of Cundiyo and Cerro Piñon
- READY Status: Borrego Mesa area near Forest Roads 440 and 306, Nambe Pueblo Lake, and the community of Cordova in Rio Arriba County
Road and Forest Closures
A closure remains in effect on NM 503 between County Road 98 and State Road 76.
The Santa Fe National Forest has also expanded a temporary closure area to include portions of the Pecos Wilderness on the Española Ranger District. Additional closures affect portions of Forest Road 306 and nearby forest roads associated with firefighting operations.
Officials are asking motorists to use caution near the fire area and avoid active suppression zones.
Community Meeting Planned
Fire managers will host a community meeting Tuesday, Aug. 18, at 6 p.m. at the Santa Fe Convention Center, located at 201 W. Marcy Street, to provide an update on fire activity, containment efforts, and evacuation information.
Weather Conditions
Forecasters expect partly cloudy skies with scattered afternoon thunderstorms. High temperatures are expected to reach the mid-70s, with southwest winds of 5 to 10 miles per hour and stronger gusts possible near thunderstorms.
