Fire managers report the wildfire remains a full suppression incident, with firefighters using a combination of direct and indirect tactics to slow the fire’s spread and protect homes, infrastructure, and other values at risk.
Source: Gila National Forest (via Facebook)
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The Bear Fire in Catron County grew rapidly Thursday, expanding from approximately 150 acres to an estimated 2,000 acres as gusty winds pushed the fire primarily to the south and southeast.
Fire managers report the wildfire remains a full suppression incident, with firefighters using a combination of direct and indirect tactics to slow the fire’s spread and protect homes, infrastructure, and other values at risk.
As conditions changed Thursday afternoon, Catron County Emergency Management and the Catron County Sheriff’s Office placed Zones 2, 3, and 4 into “Set” evacuation status. Residents and visitors in those areas are advised to remain alert, monitor official updates, and prepare for the possibility of evacuation should conditions worsen.
The Bear Fire is burning approximately 18 miles southeast of Quemado in the Quemado District of the Gila National Forest, east of Mangas Mountain. Smoke from the fire is visible from communities including Apache Creek, Quemado, Reserve, Pie Town, Omega, and Datil, and may reduce visibility on area roadways, particularly during the evening hours.
Earlier Thursday, the Gila Las Cruces Type 3 Incident Management Team assumed command of the fire under Incident Commander Marcus Cornwell. The team is utilizing local knowledge and national firefighting resources to contain the blaze while protecting private property and critical communications infrastructure on Mangas Mountain.
Resources assigned to the fire include seven aircraft, three Interagency Hotshot Crews, hand crews, engines, and heavy equipment, with additional resources expected to arrive.
Fire officials report that dry conditions continue to challenge suppression efforts. Relative humidity is expected to remain low, with weekend weather forecasts offering a chance of precipitation.
A Temporary Flight Restriction remains in place over the fire area. Officials remind the public that drones are prohibited near wildfires, as unauthorized aircraft can interfere with firefighting operations and force suppression aircraft to ground.
The cause of the Bear Fire remains under investigation.
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