Single Publication

Location: Nogal Canyon                 
Start date:  April 13, 2022
Cause: Downed Powerlines                  
Size:  400 acres
Containment: 0%                                     
Resources: Lincoln County and US Forest Service
Vegetation: Pinon/Juniper/Ponderosa Pine 

Capitan, NM April 13, 2022, 10:00 am.

Yesterday, winds of 45 mph, with gusts from 50-90 mph, were responsible for downed power lines in Nogal Canyon. The lines sparked and initially burned 100 acres. The Nogal Canyon Fire increased to 400 acres through the afternoon and overnight, and is burning on both side of the canyon. Fire crews have assessed that there were 10 structures lost.

Evacuations have been ordered for the entire canyon. Residents are encouraged to evacuate to the Carrizozo School. Livestock can be taken to the Capitan Fairgrounds. Crews will be prioritizing Point Protection (structures) and will begin to construct lines as additional crews arrive.

The fire is burning on Private and Forest Service lands. Extremely dry fuels include Pinon, Juniper and Ponderosa Pine. Wind will not be as high as it was yesterday and will be coming from the Southwest. Very low humidity is in the single digits. As the front, causing the winds, exits the area, temperatures will begin rising and fuels drying, this will be a factor affecting firefighting efforts. 

Lincoln County and US Forest Service crews responded immediately to the fire yesterday. Additional resources are enroute to relieve the initial attack personnel.