Update: Last night, increased relative humidity and decreased fire activity aided response efforts on the Sparks Fire. Crews made good progress beginning to establish fireline around the perimeter. Threatened residences received structure protection throughout the night. The fire is zero percent contained.
Today, fire activity is minimal and exhibiting creeping and smoldering behavior. Crews will continue their full suppression strategy to secure the perimeter with the goal of increasing containment. Air attack is on scene to support operations. The fire's acreage grew to an estimate of 10,000 acres after an initial flyover this morning. However, ground crews will conduct more accurate mapping with GPS as operations allow.
The Sparks Fire was discovered at 3:20 p.m. on Tuesday, April 28 near HWY 156 in Quay County. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Safety: The primary objective for the Sparks Fire is firefighter and public safety. Structures in the area remain threatened. The public should avoid the area of HWY 156 near milemaker 41 north of Hassell, due to ongoing fire operations.
Evacuations / Closures: None in place.
Weather: Currently 60 degrees F, 51% RH, east winds at 5-10 mph. Today sunny, highs near 76. South wind 5-10 mph. Tonight, a 20 percent chance of showers before midnight.
Acres: 10,000 estimated.
Containment: 0% contained.
Start Date / Time: 3.20 p.m. on Tuesday, April 26.
Fuels: Grass, piñon-juniper.
Cause: Under investigation.
Location: HWY 156 mm41.
Ownership: Private.
Structure Threat: Multiple structures.
Resources: Forestry Division, Quay County Districts 1, 2, 3, 4; Quay County Emergency Management, Oregon Department of Forestry, Cochiti FD, City of Santa Fe FD, Sandoval FD, Multiple VFD including Valley, Forest Fire, Jordan, House, Grady, Broadview, Melrose, Tucumcari, Porter. Total Personnel: 95.
