QUAY COUNTY, New Mexico – A wildfire burning near Interstate 40 in Quay County threatening nearby structures has already burned some 1,000 acres. Firefighters have yet to contain the fire as of Monday.
The blaze, known as 352 Fire, was discovered Monday at around 12:30 pm near mile marker 352, north of San Jon, according to the federal inter-agency website, New Mexico Fire Information. The fire has spread through grass and brush. It sent thick smoke visible from I-40 and prompted road closures and advisories to evacuate.
Authorities have closed State Road 469 north of San Jon as local officials went house to house notifying residents in areas near the fire. They advised residents to evacuate if instructed and stay clear from the area to allow emergency crews to conduct the containment efforts safely.
Firefighters of the New Mexico Forestry Division led the fire suppession operation, with support from local and state responders.
Authorities have yet to determine the cause of the fire.
Quay County has recorded dozens of wildfires from 1997 to 2003, burning thousands of acres. The recent grass fires continued to affect the county.
People are advised to take extra precautions especially those who are sensitive to wildfire smoke. To assess whether it is safe to stay outdoors, residents can use the New Mexico Department of Health’s 5-3-1 Visibility Method.