Recent rains reduce wildfire threat; public urged to remain cautious during fall burning season
SANTA FE – The New Mexico state forester is rescinding statewide fire restrictions in response to recent rains which have reduced the threat of wildfire across the state.
"Late season precipitation has helped to alleviate wildfire spread," said State Forester Laura McCarthy. "While fire restrictions are lifting, the public should continue to be vigilant about preventing human-caused wildfires, especially when conducting fall agricultural burns and at hunting camps."
Since Sept. 1, New Mexico has seen 236% of average rainfall for the month, though year-to date precipitation still remains far below average. Since Jan. 1, more than 1,700 wildfireshave burned more than 189,000 acres across New Mexico. San Juan, Catron and Rio Arriba counties sustained the highest concentrations of fires.
This year, intense dry lightning storms dropped the percentage of human-caused wildfires from the average of 90% to 70% of wildfires in the state. Humans commonly started wildfires this year in three ways: equipment use, such as working outside with welding or cutting tools; debris burning; and hot ash disposal.
Human-caused wildfires are always preventable. You can avoid accidentally starting the next wildfire by following these prevention steps: always use and maintain spark arresters and clear a noncombustible work zone when working outside; burn debris only when the weather is favorable; and always drown ashes to cool them completely before disposing of them safely.
For more information, visit the Forestry Division's fire prevention page.
