Higher relative humidity helps limit fire behavior on Lolo and Paramount fires

SILVER CITY, NM, July 14, 2024 – Fire behavior on the Lolo and Paramount Fires has reduced to smoldering with the increase in relative humidity over the area in the past couple of days. Rain showers and thunderstorms are predicted across the Gila National Forest, with variable chances of rain

The Lolo Fire is holding at 438 acres and 60% contained on the east, south, and west sides with only pockets of interior heat remaining in those areas. The north/northwest perimeter is uncontained, with fire smoldering and backing off of the rim in inaccessible, rocky terrain where the greatest values at risk are the firefighters themselves and there are few containment features to be found. Smoke may be visible from Quemado and New Mexico Highway 32 and U.S. Highway 60. Management of the fire has transitioned back to the forest, with 12 resources currently assigned. Crews will continue to monitor and report on fire behavior, while scouting for potential control features, making risk-based decisions about where and how to engage the fire.

The Paramount Fire is holding at 1,335 acres and all lines are secure. Isolated smoke columns are visible along New Mexico Highway 59 from the interior of the fire, where dead and down logs are being consumed. Local Gila National Forest resources are patrolling and mopping up heat as needed, with 15 resources currently assigned.

Weather is expected to be sunny in the mornings, with temperatures in the 80s to 90s across the forest with generally higher relative humidities and increasing likelihood of thunderstorms throughout the week. Gusty, outflow winds can be expected in the vicinity of passing storms, and associated lightning can be expected to kick off another round of lightning-caused fires.

Smoke should be minimal but may settle into low lying areas during overnight and early morning hours. When smoke impacts are present, New Mexico Department of Health recommends that smoke sensitive individuals should reduce physical activity and stay indoors with windows and doors closed. For those who are unable to avoid smoke exposure, use of a particulate respirator mask can help. Additional air quality information and health protection measures are posted online at NM-Tracking - Fires, Smoke and Health. Real-time mapping of smoke and other air quality impacts is available at https://fire.airnow.gov /. For more information contact Maribeth Pecotte at 575-388-8211 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .