The Gila National Forest remains under a Red Flag Warning through 8 p.m. Sunday, with officials warning that existing fires could become more active while new fires may spread quickly under hot, dry and windy conditions.
Sources: Gila National Forest, New Mexico Forestry Division
Photos/Images: Courtesy
Cover Image: McCauley Fire (“Firing operations early morning on June 25th, 2026 off of Highway 4.”)
Firefighters across New Mexico continue responding to several active wildfires as critical fire weather returns to much of the state, increasing the potential for rapid fire growth and new ignitions.
The Gila National Forest remains under a Red Flag Warning through 8 p.m. Sunday, with officials warning that existing fires could become more active while new fires may spread quickly under hot, dry and windy conditions. Residents are encouraged to remain aware of their surroundings and report any smoke to 911 or the Silver City Interagency Dispatch Center. Stage 1 Fire Restrictions also remain in effect throughout the Gila National Forest.
The largest active incident in northern New Mexico is the McCauley Springs Fire in the Jemez Ranger District east of Battleship Rock. As of Thursday, the fire had grown to an estimated 327 acres and remained 0% contained.
A Northern New Mexico Type 3 Incident Management Team assumed command Wednesday evening, with a Complex Incident Management Team scheduled to take over operations. Firefighters continue using a full suppression strategy that includes ground crews, heavy equipment, helicopters and large air tankers.
Evacuations remain in effect for Sierra de los Pinos and Jemez Falls Campground, while Highway 4 remains closed between mile markers 27 and 40. Several campgrounds and trails also remain closed. Fire officials reminded the public that a Temporary Flight Restriction is in place and urged recreational drone operators to stay clear of the fire area.
In southwestern New Mexico, the Sacaton Fire in the Gila Wilderness was mapped at approximately 69 acres following an aerial reconnaissance flight. Although scattered showers and thunderstorms may temporarily reduce fire activity, officials cautioned that gusty outflow winds could produce erratic fire behavior and that returning hot, dry weather may contribute to additional growth. Smoke from the fire is expected to remain visible from portions of U.S. Route 180.
Firefighters also quickly contained the newly reported Powderhorn Fire south of McKnight Road near State Highway 35. Multiple engine and hand crews, assisted by the Upper Mimbres Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department and Grant County Sheriff’s deputies, held the fire to approximately 5.5 acres while protecting nearby structures. The cause remains under investigation.
Fire officials continue to urge residents to remain vigilant throughout the weekend as elevated fire danger persists across much of New Mexico. Even with the possibility of scattered thunderstorms, lightning, strong wind gusts and dry fuels can quickly create dangerous wildfire conditions.
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