Trigo 4.20.08 Update
Incident: Trigo Fire Wildland Fire
Released: 4/20/2008
Date April 20, 2008 6:00 AM For Immediate Release
Weather Presents Challenges for Firefighters
Firefighters were unable to strengthen containment lines as planned today due to uncooperative weather. Crews attempted to deepen the black line between the fire front and the northern perimeter of the fire by consuming unburned fuel with drip torches. However, single digit humidity and strong south winds forced suspension of the effort about midday. Conditions caused some interior runs and spotting over containment lines, but all spots were quickly corralled or extinguished with retardant. Air tankers and helicopters dropped 65,000 gallons of retardant on hot spots and in front of flame fronts.
Tomorrow's weather promises to be equally challenging, with low humidity, high winds, and higher temperatures. Heavy use of aircraft and retardant is planned, as firefighters continue to strengthen lines and cool down or extinguish hot spots.
Yesterday evening's public meeting in Torreon, NM lessened anxiety among local residents. About eighty residents came out to hear presentations by Torrance County Emergency Management, the Mountainair District Ranger, Cibola National Forest agency representative, and New Mexico Incident Management Team members. The meeting focused on community preparation for a potentially active fire season.
Fire Facts:
Containment: 30% Acres: 1,350 Fire Personnel: 337 Hot Shot Crews: 6
Type II Crews: 5 Engines: 8 Aircraft Available: 3 helicopters, 4 airtankers
Dozers: 2 Cost to date: $1,495,000
Today's Weather: Forecasted high temperature of 63 0, relative humidity 11%, wind 20 mph gusting to 35 mph.
Closures: Forest Road 245 to Capilla Peak, and Red Canyon Campground remain closed. Area residents should continue to be aware of increased traffic on area highways due to fire vehicle activity.
