Ruidoso, New Mexico — Yesterday, Ruidoso officials gave the following order to residents:
“GO NOW: Do not attempt to gather belongings or protect your home. Evacuate immediately.”
A dire pair of wildfires has forced the evacuation of a popular mountain village and other surrounding towns in New Mexico. This is due to the continued burning of the South Fork and Salt Fires. The South Fork fire, which was discovered on June 17th, has spread to at least 13,921 acres and is 0% contained. The Salt Fire, which started in the nearby Mescalero Apache Reservation, has gone through 4,876 acres and is also 0% contained.
An evacuation order is also in place for the nearby town of Alto. Ski Apache, which is located in Alto, is a popular ski resort that averages 15 feet of snowfall each season. The New Mexico ski resort features 55 trails and 11 lifts, including New Mexico’s only eight-person gondola. The ski resort has not opened for summer activities due to the wildfires in the state.
It’s uncertain whether the fire has reached the ski resort. However, we know that it has destroyed the Alto Ski Shop & Bar, which is at the base of the access road (Ski Run Road). We’ve reached out to Ski Apache for comment but have yet to receive a response.
Image/Video Credits: Rudioso.net (Featured Image), Village of Ruidoso, Ski Apache, Giuli Frendak
