SANTA FE COUNTY, N.M. — Firefighters battling the Frijoles Fire in northern New Mexico have increased containment to 52%, marking continued progress on the lightning-caused wildfire that has burned 15,226 acres since it started on Aug. 4.
According to Tuesday’s update, more than 800 personnel remain assigned to the fire, focusing on remaining hot spots along the southern and northeastern portions of the fire perimeter. Fire crews are also shifting some resources toward suppression repair efforts, including restoring areas impacted by firefighting operations and repairing control lines.
Officials said firefighters are working to extinguish lingering pockets of heat while preparing contingency lines and improving roads and other control features around the fire area.
The wildfire has prompted evacuation advisories in parts of Santa Fe and Rio Arriba counties. In Santa Fe County, Cundiyo, Cerro Piñon and portions of the Borrego Mesa area remain in “Set” status, while Nambe Pueblo Lake remains in “Ready” status. The community of Cordova in Rio Arriba County also remains in “Ready” status.
Smoke continues to affect some communities near the fire. Air quality conditions are expected to vary throughout the day, with the heaviest impacts forecast in areas closest to the fire.
Road and forest closures also remain in effect, including portions of NM 503 and parts of the Santa Fe National Forest, including areas within the Pecos Wilderness.
Fire managers say hot and dry conditions will continue, although a slight increase in moisture could bring additional cloud cover and a small chance of thunderstorms in the coming days.
The Frijoles Fire remains under active management as crews work toward increasing containment and reducing threats to nearby communities.
