Hummingbird Fire Containment Climbs to 76%; All Evacuation Orders Lifted

Containment on the Hummingbird Fire increased to 76% Thursday as firefighters continued scaling back operations on the lightning-caused wildfire burning in the Gila Wilderness east of Glenwood.

According to the latest update from the Gila National Forest, the fire remains estimated at 5,650 acres. A Type 4 fire management organization with approximately 40 personnel remains assigned to the incident following the transition from the larger Gila Las Cruces Type 3 Incident Management Team earlier this week.

Officials announced Wednesday evening that all evacuation statuses for the Willow Creek Subdivision had been lifted.

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“The Office of Emergency Management & Catron Sheriff’s Office has removed the evacuation status for Willow Creek Subdivision,” an update posted Wednesday stated. “Residents may return home.”

Earlier this week, the fire had reached 60% containment as firefighters worked to secure lines along the southeastern perimeter of the fire, particularly in areas above Iron Creek within the footprint of the 2024 Ridge Fire scar. Fire managers also continued preparation work along the Bursum and Bearwallow roads while heavy equipment crews mulched debris created during suppression operations.

Rainfall and cooler conditions in recent days helped reduce fire activity across portions of the fire area, though smoke may still remain visible from locations including the Gila Cliff Dwellings area, Truth or Consequences and Silver City as fuels continue to burn within the wilderness footprint.

Officials also reminded the public that a Temporary Flight Restriction remains in place over the fire area, meaning drones are prohibited from operating near the incident.

Stage 1 fire restrictions remain in effect across the area.