The lightning-caused fire, which began April 20 about 15 miles east of Glenwood, had previously been reported at 4,364 acres with no containment as of April 30.
Source: Gila National Forest (via Facebook)
Photos: Courtesy
The Hummingbird Fire burning in the Gila Wilderness east of Glenwood has grown significantly in recent days, with the latest update estimating the fire at 5,298 acres and 7% containment.
The lightning-caused fire, which began April 20 about 15 miles east of Glenwood, had previously been reported at 4,364 acres with no containment as of April 30.
Fire Activity and Conditions
Fire officials reported active fire behavior across Iron Mesa and Iron Creek, where the fire has been moving through dense snag patches and heavy accumulations of dead and down fuels.
Crews have continued working to keep the fire above the Willow Creek Subdivision, using a combination of indirect line construction and firing operations along the western perimeter. Firefighters assigned to structure protection have been reinforcing containment lines and mopping up spot fires near the subdivision.
Aerial and Ground Support
Aircraft and technology continue to play a role in firefighting efforts. Infrared (IR) flights and unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) are being used to:
- track fire behavior and hot spots
- provide real-time intelligence to crews on the ground
- identify hazardous terrain and unstable burned trees
These tools help improve firefighter safety and support strategic decision-making in difficult terrain.
Evacuations and Safety
The Willow Creek Subdivision remains under Level 3 “GO” evacuation status, meaning residents should not return until conditions change.
A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) remains in place over the fire area, and officials continue to remind the public that drones are prohibited: If you fly, firefighters can’t.
Weather and Ongoing Efforts
Weather conditions remain a concern, with low humidity and gusty winds continuing to influence fire behavior. Crews are working to secure containment lines and complete indirect line construction using existing trails and previous fire footprints where possible.
Closures and Public Information
A forest closure remains in effect for the Hummingbird Fire area. Smoke from the fire may be visible in surrounding communities, including the Gila Valley, Truth or Consequences and Silver City.
For updates and additional information, officials direct the public to NMFireInfo, InciWeb and the Gila National Forest’s official channels.
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