Ruidoso residents ordered to evacuate immediately due to wildfire
South Fork Fire prompts emergency evacuations
Residents told to leave immediately, highway closed
Authorities in Ruidoso, New Mexico, have ordered the immediate evacuation of the village due to a wildfire that is raging just outside the town. The South Fork Fire was first reported around 10:50 am Monday on the Mescalero Apache Reservation west of Ruidoso.
The fire has quickly spread, fueled by strong winds and dry conditions. Smoke from the fire can be seen for miles around, and the air quality in Ruidoso is hazardous.
New Mexico State Police have closed US Highway 70 from mile markers 249 to 258, which is 4 miles east of Mescalero to 2 miles east of Carrizo.
Residents who are unable to evacuate on their own should call 911. The Red Cross has set up a shelter at the Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort & Casino in Mescalero.
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