Wildfires Burn Over 76,000 Acres Across New Mexico Amid Containment Efforts

Wildfire activity continues extensively across western and central Canada, western Alaska, and parts of the northern US, producing light to moderate smoke that has spread into regions including Montana, the Dakotas, and northern Minnesota. In southwestern North America, significant wildfire smoke plumes have been observed covering northern Mexico, the Gulf of California, central-western Texas, New Mexico, and northeastern Arizona, with areas near active fires experiencing moderate to heavy smoke density. Notably, New Mexico is battling two major wildfires: the Trout Fire in the Gila National Forest, burning over 24,000 acres with zero containment and causing closures, and the Buck Fire in Catron County, which has charred more than 58,000 acres and is 15 percent contained. Both fires are fueled by hot, dry conditions and gusty winds, prompting red flag warnings and extensive firefighting efforts involving hundreds of personnel. Additionally, Saharan dust is moving westward over the Lesser Antilles, contributing to air quality concerns in the region. Officials continue to monitor fire growth and issue evacuation notices while working to strengthen containment lines amid critical fire weather conditions.