Location: 4 miles west of mile marker 37 on U.S. Highway 180 and south of Saliz Pass, near the top of Whiterocks Mountain close to the Arizona border. Legal description -- T9S, R21W, Section 30.

Start Date: July 10, 2017 Size: ~7-10 acres Cause: Lightning

Vegetation: Ponderosa pine transitioning into pinon juniper Containment: 0%

Summary: The Whiterocks Fire is burning on National Forest System Lands on the Glenwood Ranger District, Gila National Forest. The fire is currently being monitored. The southwestern U.S. has entered monsoon season and there is some expectation of rain on the fire. Smoke is visible from U.S. Highway 180 in the area of Glenwood and Alma, NM.

Smoke from fire rises up and away during the daytime, but in the evening smoke can pool back down in canyons, drainages, and basins. Smoke can hurt your eyes, irritate your respiratory system, and intensify chronic heart and lung problems. Your eyes are your best tools to determine if it’s safe to be outside. If visibility is over 5 miles, the air quality is generally good. If you are having health effects from smoke exposure then take extra care to stay inside or get to an area with better air quality. You should also see your doctor or healthcare professional as needed. For information on air quality and protecting your health, and to find guidance on distances and visibility, please visit https://nmtracking.org/fire . Fire information can be found at nmfireinfo.com.

For information on the Gila National Forest, check out our website at http://www.fs.usda.gov/gila