Archive for April, 2022
Fire Not On the Mountain – 4/11/22
by John Weckerle
East Mountain residents may well be concerned about the source of the intense smell of smoke permeating the area. We have checked with the Santa Fe County Fire Department in Edgewood. They have received over 50 inquiries today. The smokey smell we are experiencing is from the Big Hole fire near Los Lunas, and weather conditions have been just right to bring us the aroma. According to InciWeb:
The Big Hole Fire is located in the community of Belen in Valencia County. The fire is burning on both sides of the Rio Grande north of River Road and threatening homes according to the Valencia County Fire Department. An unknown number of structures have been reported as lost. Evacuations have been ordered by local law enforcement for Blue Sky Road, Las Chapulinas, and Nighthawk Road. Evacuees should report to the Belen Recreation Center at 305 Eagle Ln. The Big Hole Fire was first reported at about 1:30 p.m. this afternoon. It is currently estimated at 60 acres and 0% contained. Gusting winds, low humidity, and drought conditions are impacting fire activity. Numerous resources are at the scene with more crews on the way. This is an evolving incident and more information will be provided as it becomes available. Individuals sensitive to wildfire smoke should take precautions and use the New Mexico Department of Health 5-3-1 Visibility Method to determine if it’s safe to be outside. Learn more at https://nmtracking.org/environment/air/FireAndSmoke.html.
There is no imminent danger to the East Mountain/Estancia Valley area. For information on wildfires throughout the nation, consult InciWeb.