Frijoles Fire burns 11,335 acres in New Mexico

The Frijoles Fire, ignited by lightning, has burned 11,335 acres and is currently 9% contained. The fire has expanded toward the northeast into the Pecos Wilderness, driven by topography and fuel.

Emergency officials have issued various evacuation statuses for surrounding communities. In Santa Fe County, the Borrego Mesa area near Forest Roads 440 and 306 has been moved to ‘SET’ status, meaning residents should be prepared to leave at a moment’s notice. Nambé Pueblo Lake remains in ‘READY’ status. In Cundiyó, Camino de Cañon is under ‘GO’ status, while the rest of Cundiyó and Cerro Piñon are at ‘SET’ status.

Firefighting efforts are focused on constructing containment lines along the fire’s edge through Cañon Navajo and the western flank toward Rio Frijoles and Cañon Chimayo. Crews are working to protect homes in Cundiyó, Gorham Scout Ranch, and Cerro Piñon. A community meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, August 18, at 6 p.m. at the Santa Fe Convention Center.