In the wake of a rash of wildfires across New Mexico, officials are pulling local and out-of-state resources to fight the fires and keep them from spreading.
The Southwest Coordination Center (SWC) noted that in late April, 20 wildfire crew members came to New Mexico, along with 39 fire engines, five helicopters, and two planes, according to KOB 4.
“That’s pretty unheard of to have that many going on at one time,” Kelly Hamilton, deputy secretary for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), told KOB 4.
Five federal teams are also in the state battling wildfires, KOB 4 reported.
Punky Moore with the SWC noted that teams have been responding to multiple fires in New Mexico, moving from location to location to contain the fires. “We have received and are ordering crews from other geographic areas,” Moore said.
In addition to the fires, crews also have to battle the weather. Strong winds have fanned the flames, keeping flight crews on the ground, according to KOB 4. Planes and helicopters are effective tools, but cannot be used when wind gusts are strong.
A tanker stationed at the Albuquerque Sunport will be dispatched to the McBride Fire in Ruidoso, KOB 4 noted.