New Mexico wildfire News

Review of Prescribed Fires Following Record New Mexico Blaze Finds Gaps

Two years after the U.S. Forest Service sparked what would become the largest and most destructive wildfire in New Mexico’s recorded history, independent investigators say there are gaps that need to be addressed if the agency is to be successful …

Lightning Strike Started New Mexico Wildfire That Damaged 1,400 Structures

A lightning strike caused the larger of two wildfires that has killed at least two people and destroyed or damaged more than 1,400 structures in New Mexico, authorities said. The South Fork Fire was first reported June 17 on the …

Lawsuit Says Compensation Delayed for Victims of Worst Wildfire in New Mexico History

A new lawsuit has been filed against the Federal Emergency Management Agency, alleging compensation has been delayed for victims of the largest wildfire in New Mexico’s recorded history. FEMA is responsible for doling out funds to people who suffered losses …

Forest Service Sued Over Flooding Deaths in Wake of Historic New Mexico Wildfire

Relatives of three people who died last year in a flash flood stemming from the largest wildfire in New Mexico’s recorded history are suing the U.S. Forest Service. The wrongful death lawsuit filed earlier this month alleges the Forest Service …

New Mexicans Affected by Last Year’s Wildfire Get FEMA Aid

The Federal Emergency Management Agency Hermits Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office, charged with administering nearly $4 billion in emergency financial aid for survivors of last year’s record-breaking wildfire in New Mexico, is expected to open its three regional offices to the …

Rural New Mexico Eyes Insurance Fight Amid Wildfires

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) โ€“ Manuel and Marcy Silva combed through the charred rubble that used to be their home, searching for any salvageable bits in the wake of the largest wildfire in New Mexico history. Manuel found two of his …

U.S. Agency Covering Matching Costs Following New Mexico Fire

The U.S. Department of Agriculture will waive cost-sharing requirements for New Mexico farmers and ranchers affected by the largest wildfire in the state’s recorded history. U.S. Sen. Ben Ray Lujรกn announced that the agency will cover cost sharing for emergency …

Record-Setting Wildfire in New Mexico Declared Contained

More than four grueling months and $300 million later, the federal government has declared the largest wildfire in New Mexico’s recorded history 100% contained, a notable milestone but just another step in what local residents and officials say will be …

2 New Mexico Counties Were Added to Wildfire Disaster Declaration

Two more New Mexico counties were added to a federal disaster declaration issued in response to the state’s historic wildfire season. State officials said that Los Alamos and Sandoval counties will now be eligible for grant funding through the Federal …

New Mexico Superintendent of Insurance, Insurer Group Urge Passage of Hermit’s Peak Fire Assistance Act

New Mexico Superintendent of Insurance Russell Toal and American Property Casualty Insurance Association President and CEO David A. Sampson are urging Congress to act quickly to pass the Hermit’s Peak Fire Assistance Act so residents impacted by the fire have …