A warm, dry fall is pushing fire danger to High – please be careful with campfires!
SILVER CITY, NM, Sept. 30, 2024 – It's been a hot, dry fall on the Gila National Forest and the seasonal outlook is predicting a dryer than normal fall and winter, increasing local fire danger to "High". Although precipitation from January through August met or exceeded the 30-year average at most sites, little rain graced the forest last month, and total moisture over the past three months has been lower than average. Temperatures have been considerably hotter than normal, and relative humidity has been lower than normal.
"Recent weather has dried out local fuels, making them receptive to fire and pushing fire danger higher. The extended seasonal outlook is showing a strong likelihood of higher temperatures and lower precipitation than normal over the next three months," said Fire and Aviation Manager Marcus Cornwell. "The dryer than normal conditions will allow fire managers at our districts to meet hazardous fuels objectives for prescribed fire that often aren't available this time of year. Prescribed fires operate under specific guidelines that dictate acceptable temperature, relative humidity, wind, and fuel moisture to meet the desired fire effects."
With hunting season in full swing, hunters are reminded that to protect a favorite hunting area and its wildlife from damaging wildfire, never leave a campfire unattended. To reduce your risk of causing a wildfire, avoid parking your hot vehicle over tall grasses, do not allow chains to drag behind your vehicle, and always ensure your campfire is out cold to the touch with your bare hand. Use plenty of water to drown the coals, stir the water and coals together, and use the back of your hand to feel for heat. Repeat this process until the coals are cool enough to touch. For more information contact Maribeth Pecotte at 575-388-8211 or
