Unified Fire forces evacuations south of Belen as roads close and containment stays at 0%
The unified fire expanded quickly south of Belen in Valencia County, N. M., triggering evacuations and road closures Tuesday as responders worked a fast-moving incident that remained at 0% containment as of 8 p. m. (ET).
What areas are impacted by Unified Fire closures and evacuations?
The Unified Fire burned around 500 acres near Highway 304 and Lagrima Road, and officials closed Highway 304 between Lucero Drive and Barbara Street. As of 8 p. m. (ET), the fire was located on both sides of the Rio Grande.
Evacuation status was in effect for residents on Madrone Flyway, who were placed in “GO” status. Madrone Flyway is a block north of Lagrima, and the Valencia County Fire Chief said Lagrima was also under evacuation. First responders warned that additional evacuations could be ordered overnight, with evacuation information expected to be posted first on social media for Valencia County and Rio Communities.
How are responders handling the incident, and what is the fire status?
Fire crews from around the region responded as the fire grew. The incident was described as a “Type 3” response, and the New Mexico State Forestry division was set to take over the response Wednesday morning.
As of 8 p. m. (ET), no injuries had been reported and no structures were reported lost.
Power outages, animal evacuations, and weather conditions near the fire
PNM cut distribution lines affected by fire activity, leaving approximately 265 homes without power. For residents without power who need to plug in medical equipment or access a cooling station, officials directed people to the Belen Recreation Center.
The fire also forced evacuations beyond homes. Galloping Goat Pumpkin Patch said it had to evacuate more than 200 goats from the area.
Chief Meteorologist Eddie Garcia said light and variable winds were expected to turn more northwesterly Tuesday afternoon, staying around 7–10 mph, with a possible stray gust of 10–15 mph late in the afternoon. Light northerly winds were expected Tuesday night into Wednesday morning. Humidity was expected to fall to 10% Tuesday afternoon, alongside high temperatures near 90 degrees.
