Single Publication

Acres:  170,665 acres
Containment: 21%
Total personnel:  1,422
Start Date:  Hermits Peak: April 6, 2022; Calf Canyon: April 19, 2022
Cause: Hermits Peak: spot fires from prescribed burn; Calf Canyon: under investigation
Location: Located near Gallinas Canyon
Fuels: Heavy mixed conifer, ponderosa pine, brush, and grass

Highlights: A Red Flag Warning has been issued for today, kicking off a historic multi-day wind event that could result in extreme fire behavior. Conditions could change quickly, so remain vigilant in staying updated on evacuations and emergency notifications. A significant concern for firefighters is that new fire starts during this period could redirect resources from their current tasks. Please take extreme care to prevent new fires from starting. In the last few days, firefighters have worked tirelessly to add and strengthen control lines, construct more contingency lines, and prepare structures; however, fire remains on the landscape and could be a threat in some areas. There have been reports of structure protection equipment being stolen from the fireline. This equipment is critical to the ongoing firefight. While there is a strong law enforcement presence, please report anything suspicious. 

Operations: Conditions will make for extreme fire conditions, and firefighter and public safety is always the top priority. A large structure protection group has been working up the Gallinas corridor to secure the area further and implement protection measures around homes and other values. In the Montezuma area, firefighters were able to fight the fire directly, meaning doing things like wetting, smothering, or physically separating the burning from unburned fuel. Some of the mutual aid engine crews were able to help with this. The area west of Las Vegas has some interior pockets of fuels continuing to burn out. Firefighters continue to cool hot spots around the fire's edge. Crews have been engaged heavily in the Mineral Hills area as the fire remains active. Ground crews will continue to work to keep fire out of the values but will likely lose air support as the winds pick up. Fire in the wilderness continues to move slowly towards the Crest Trail and isn't a threat at this time. Near Rociada and Upper Rociada, the fire has remained active. Firelines have been put in place to slow it down, and helicopters have been dropping water as the weather has allowed. Additional firefighters were added to this area, including a hand crew and a dozer. A heavy emphasis has been placed on the north end ahead of the anticipated winds. Three structure protection groups have continued work in the communities there. They've been setting up hose lays and sprinkler systems, clearing away vegetation, and creating firelines around homes and buildings. More dozer line has also been constructed to protect homes. Around Ledoux, the fire has shown minimal heat, except for areas further interior. Crews remain in the vicinity of Sapello, Las Tusas, and the surrounding areas to monitor and mitigate any issues.