Gila National Forest

06/15/2026

Daily Update for June 15, 2026 - -

Firefighters Make Progress on the Bear Fire

Acres: 6,920.4
Start Date: June 9, 2026
Location: 18 miles southeast of Quemado, NM
Personnel: 496
Containment: 11%
Cause: Lightning

Summary: Firefighters increased containment on the Bear Fire yesterday. Fair weather contributed to their progress toward full suppression.

Crews used a variety of tools and tactics to minimize the footprint of the Bear Fire and protect values at risk yesterday. Firefighters constructed handline to protect private land on the fire’s eastern flank. They also employed heavy equipment to bolster protection for Mangas Mountain lookout and communications site. With prep work along 11A Road completed, crews finished tactical firing operations to reduce available fuel and limit the fire’s potential to spread to the southwest. Prep work around a water well safeguarded an identified value at risk.

Today, resources will work to extend containment lines on the fire’s southeastern end. Crews are using direct tactics when possible. Prep work continues around the Mangas Mountain lookout and communications site to ensure those critical values remain protected.

With this week’s drying trend, the public should be aware that interior pockets of unburned fuel will likely still produce smoke visible from the surrounding area.

Weather: Today’s forecast shows some clouds and a 15% chance of showers. The day will start with higher relative humidity values. Dry air moves in from the north Tuesday. Wednesday is expected to be warm, dry, and breezy.

Safety: A 24-hour Temporary Flight Restriction is also in place. If you fly, we can’t! The Gila National Forest enacted an Area Closure Order for the Bear Fire. Along with private dip sites, aircraft are sourcing water out of Quemado Lake. Members of the public should avoid all areas where firefighting operations are occurring.

Evacuations: The Catron County Emergency Management Office and Catron County Sheriffs are implementing the Ready, Set Go! method. Three of the identified zones of private land east of the fire, moved into SET status Thursday evening. Residents are encouraged to monitor official updates and be prepared for potential changing conditions.

Smoke: Smoke may be visible in and around surrounding communities. Air quality will vary based on fire activity, weather, and wind patterns. Residents should reduce prolonged outdoor activity when smoke is present and check the Air Quality Index before recreating or working outdoors. Sensitive groups should take extra precautions to limit smoke exposure. For real-time smoke conditions, visit https://fire.airnow.gov.

Fire Restrictions: The Gila National Forest is in Stage 1 Fire Restrictions due to long term severe drought in the Gila region, increased tree mortality across the forest, and forecasted hotter, drier weather conditions. Stage 1 Fire Restrictions limit campfires on forest land to designated recreation sites and campgrounds with constructed metal fire rings. Open burning is also prohibited in the unincorporated area of Catron County and in Catron County Fire District 30.

For more information:

Public Information: [email protected]


Incident Information:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/GilaNForest

InciWeb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/nmgnf-bear-fire

06/15/2026

Update June 14, 2026, 8:00 p.m. - -
The Bear Fire is currently estimated at 6,920 acres and 11% containment.

Firefighters took advantage of today’s favorable weather conditions, strengthening containment lines and engaging in direct and indirect suppression actions.

An area closure remains in effect. For the latest evacuation status, follow Catron County Emergency Management.

06/14/2026

Daily Update for June 14, 2026 - -
Moderated Weather Conditions Help Firefighters on Bear Fire

Acres: 6,654
Start Date: June 9, 2026
Location: 18 miles southeast of Quemado, NM
Personnel: 471
Containment: 3%
Cause: Lightning

Summary: Favorable weather conditions and hard work by firefighters increased containment to 3% on the Bear Fire with more containment expected today. Work continues to protect values at risk and stop fire progression.

Despite moderated weather conditions the fire behavior remained active on Saturday. The Bear Fire spread to the southwest yesterday, moving through heavy dead and down fuels.

Yesterday, ground resources carried out firing operations on the western flank to secure Mangas Mountain Lookout and communication site. Crews continued prepping indirect line as a contingency on the eastern side to protect private and state land while taking advantage of opportunities to use direct tactics when safe. Helicopters made 35 water drops, assisting ground resources. Fixed wing aircraft supported mapping and reconnaissance. Light moisture and clouds slightly tempered the fire’s activity in the afternoon.

Working overnight, crews secured the fires edge and prepared indirect fire lines on the Bear Fire. Today, firefighters plan to continue firing operations as conditions allow. On the east side of the fire, firefighters are using a mix of direct and indirect tactics along the Gila National Forest and private land boundary.

Weather: Similar to yesterday, afternoon storms are forecasted for the area surrounding the Bear Fire today. Monday’s weather transitions toward a trend of warm and dry days with breezy afternoons.

Safety: A 24-hour Temporary Flight Restriction is also in place. If you fly, we can’t! The Gila National Forest enacted an Area Closure Order for the Bear Fire. Along with private dip sites, aircraft are sourcing water out of Quemado Lake. Members of the public should avoid all areas where firefighting operations are occurring.

Evacuations: The Catron County Emergency Management Office and Catron County Sheriffs are implementing the Ready, Set Go! method. Three of the identified zones of private land east of the fire, moved into SET status Thursday evening. Residents are encouraged to monitor official updates and be prepared for potential changing conditions.

Smoke: Smoke may be visible in and around surrounding communities. Air quality will vary based on fire activity, weather, and wind patterns. Residents should reduce prolonged outdoor activity when smoke is present and check the Air Quality Index before recreating or working outdoors. Sensitive groups should take extra precautions to limit smoke exposure. For real-time smoke conditions, visit https://fire.airnow.gov.

Fire Restrictions: The Gila National Forest is in Stage 1 Fire Restrictions due to long term severe drought in the Gila region, increased tree mortality across the forest, and forecasted hotter, drier weather conditions. Stage 1 Fire Restrictions limit campfires on forest land to designated recreation sites and campgrounds with constructed metal fire rings. Open burning is also prohibited in the unincorporated area of Catron County and in Catron County Fire District 30.

For more information:
Public Information: [email protected]

Incident Information:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/GilaNForest
InciWeb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/nmgnf-bear-fire

06/14/2026

Update June 13, 2026, 7:00 p.m. - -The Bear Fire is currently estimated at 6,654 acres and 3% containment.

Firefighters made progress containing the Bear Fire today as increased humidity and scattered showers helped reduce fire intensity during the afternoon. Less than one tenth of an inch of rain fell over the fire area. Crews and aircraft are utilizing direct and indirect suppression tactics throughout the 24 hour operational shift.

Tonight, if weather and fuel conditions are opportune, firefighters will conduct strategic firing operations along portions of the western perimeter to strengthen containment lines. Crews will continue to hold and secure completed firing operations, prepare additional containment line, scout opportunities for direct attack along the eastern flank of the fire, and employ direct suppression where conditions allow.

An area closure remains in effect as well as evacuations. For the latest evacuation status, follow Catron County Emergency Management.

Video: Timelapse video of smoke and clouds from the Bear Fire Incident Command Post on Saturday, June 13, 2026.

06/13/2026

Daily Update - - June 13, 2026

Slower Fire Growth Aids Firefighters in Making Progress on Bear Fire

Acres: 6,042.6
Start Date: June 9, 2026
Location: 18 miles southeast of Quemado, NM
Personnel: 352
Containment: 0%
Cause: Lightning

Summary: Favorable weather conditions on Friday slowed growth of the Bear Fire on the Gila National Forest. The fire is in an extreme drought-stricken area, where heavy fuel loading, recent tree mortality and steep terrain continue to challenge firefighter safety with direct tactics.

Five hotshot crews, six handcrews, two dozers, 14 engines, and nine water tenders operated across four divisions to construct and secure firelines yesterday. Firefighters secured a firing operation that occurred on the north flank overnight to protect critical power infrastructure. On the western flank and southern flank, resources prepared indirect fire lines. To the east, firefighters worked on indirect lines to protect private and New Mexico State land. Five Type 1 helicopters, four Type 3 helicopters, and large air tankers assisted ground resources. The helicopters cooled hot spots with 74,000 gallons of water.

Last night, operations conducted a defensive firing operation on the western flank, to secure Mangas Mountain communication site and lookout tower. Also on the western side, resources will continue indirect firing when conditions are optimal. On the south and east, firefighters will connect forest roads, using direct and indirect tactics to minimize fire spread with help from air resources.

Weather: A weak impulse of moisture moving across the region this weekend will raise relative humidity levels and bring a threat of thunderstorms. Starting Monday, weather turns warmer and drier.

Safety: A 24-hour Temporary Flight Restriction is also in place. If you fly, we can’t! The Gila National Forest enacted an Area Closure Order for the Bear Fire. Along with private dip sites, aircraft are sourcing water out of Quemado Lake. Members of the public should avoid all areas where firefighting operations are occurring.

Evacuations: The Catron County Emergency Management Office and Catron County Sheriffs are implementing the Ready, Set Go! method. Three of the identified zones of private land east of the fire, moved into SET status Thursday evening. Residents are encouraged to monitor official updates and be prepared for potential changing conditions.

Smoke: Smoke may be visible in and around surrounding communities. Air quality will vary based on fire activity, weather, and wind patterns. Residents should reduce prolonged outdoor activity when smoke is present and check the Air Quality Index before recreating or working outdoors. Sensitive groups should take extra precautions to limit smoke exposure. For real-time smoke conditions, visit https://fire.airnow.gov.

Fire Restrictions: The Gila National Forest is in Stage 1 Fire Restrictions due to long term severe drought in the Gila region, increased tree mortality across the forest, and forecasted hotter, drier weather conditions. Stage 1 Fire Restrictions limit campfires on forest land to designated recreation sites and campgrounds with constructed metal fire rings. Open burning is also prohibited in the unincorporated area of Catron County and in Catron County Fire District 30.

For more information:
Public Information: [email protected]

Incident Information:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/GilaNForest
InciWeb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/nmgnf-bear-fire

06/13/2026

Update June 12, 2026, 7:00 pm - The is currently estimated at 5,038 acres and remains highly active today.

Firefighters and aerial resources continue utilizing a mix of direct and indirect tactics to contain the fire. Additional resources are arriving on scene to support this full suppression incident.

To protect public health and safety, Gila National Forest has implemented an area closure that will go into effect at 6:00 a.m. Saturday, June 13, 2026. The emergency closure includes all National Forest System lands east of Catron County Road A095 (Mangas Road), as well as all roads and trails within the temporarily closed area.

For more information visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/r03/gila/alerts/bear-fire-area-road-closure

Catron County Zones 2, 3 and 4 remain in a "SET" evacuation status. For more information regarding evacuation status, follow Catron County Emergency Management. Remember to stay alert, monitor official updates, and be prepared for potentially changing conditions.

06/12/2026

A Forest Closure (Order Number: #03-06-03-26-002) is in effect for the .

U.S. Department of Agriculture, U.S. Forest Service
Gila National Forest
Quemado Ranger District
Bear Fire Area/Road Closure

PROHIBITIONS
Pursuant to 16 U.S.C. § 551 and 36 C.F.R. § 261.50 both (a) and (b), the following is prohibited on the National Forest System (NFS) lands and roads in the Quemado Ranger District, Gila National Forest, described below and shown on the attached map incorporated into this Order as Exhibit A (the “Described Area”):
1. Entering or being in an area. 36 C.F.R. § 261.52(e).
2. Being on a road. 36 C.F.R. § 261.54(a).

EXEMPTIONS
Pursuant to 36 C.F.R. § 261.50(e), the following persons are exempt from this Order:

Persons with Forest Service Permit No. FS-2200-10 (Term Grazing Permit) for Alamocito, Canyon del Buey, Puerto Viejo, San Antone, and Sanchez Allotments. Persons with Forest Service Permit No. FS-7700-48 (Permit for Use of Roads, Trails, or Areas Restricted by Regulation or Order), specifically exempting them from this Order or a written determination by a Forest Service authorized officer
that a permit is not required under 36 C.F.R. § 251.50(e)(1) or (2).
Any Federal, State, or Local Officer, or member of an organized rescue or firefighting resource in the performance of an official duty.

DESCRIBED AREA
The Described Area includes all National Forest System lands and roads east of Catron County Road A095 (Mangas Road) starting at the Forest Boundary at Township 2 South, Range 14 West, Section 30 and proceeding south to the end of the Forest Boundary at
Township 4 South, Range 14 West, Section 19, and then east to the eastern Forest Boundary as shown in Exhibit A.

PURPOSE
The purpose of this Order is to protect public health and safety during fire implementation within the Bear Fire area.

IMPLEMENTATION
This Order shall be able to be implemented from June 13, 2026, at 06:00 am until rescinded. A map identifying the Described Area is attached and made part of this Order as Exhibit A. For a digital version of this Order and Exhibit A, go to https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts.
Unless otherwise expressly defined in this Order, the terms used in this Order are defined by the regulations of the Secretary of Agriculture, 36 C.F.R. Chapter II, Parts 200-299. If there are terms in this Order that are not expressly defined in the Order or 36 C.F.R. Chapter II, Parts 200-299, their meaning shall be determined
by their plain language definitions. A violation of the above prohibitions is punishable as a Class B misdemeanor by
a fine of not more than $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for organizations, or by imprisonment for not more than six months, or both. 16 U.S.C. § 551; 18 U.S.C. §§ 3559, 3571, and 3581.

Contact the Quemado Ranger District in Quemado, New Mexico (575) 773-4678, and Gila National Forest Supervisor’s Office in Silver City, New Mexico (575) 388-8201, for more information about this Order. This Order supersedes any previous Orders prohibiting the same or similar acts in the same Described Area.
Signed and issued on June 12, 2026.

06/12/2026

Update for June 12, 2026 - - Critical Fire Weather Increases Growth of Lightning-Caused Bear Fire

Acres: ~3,717
Start Date: June 9, 2026
Location: 18 miles southeast of Quemado, NM
Personnel: 227
Containment: 0%
Cause: Lightning

Summary: Firefighters are working to suppress the Bear Fire on the Gila National Forest, which is estimated at 2,000 acres. The Bear Fire is a full suppression incident utilizing a mix of direct and indirect tactics to contain the fire.

Yesterday, dry weather and wind drove the fire through steep terrain with heavy fuel loads. Growth was predominantly on the east-southeast side of the fire. Crews continued with direct line construction where possible, but fire behavior necessitated the assessment and prep of indirect lines.

Three Type 1 helicopters, two Type 3 helicopters, and fixed wing aircraft are supporting the efforts of eight crews, two dozers, 13 engines, and five water tenders.

Today firefighters will continue with direct line on the northern flank of the fire, protecting critical energy infrastructure. Due to anticipated fire behavior, resources will prepare indirect fire lines on the eastern and southern perimeter to minimize growth and protect private and state land.

Weather: Friday’s forecast predicts moisture seeping back into the region from the east, improving minimum relative humidities. Winds will continue to blow from the west-northwest at 5-10 mph. Storms will move into southwestern New Mexico over the weekend, elevating relative humidity levels up to 35% before dry weather returns Tuesday.

Safety: A 24-hour Temporary Flight Restriction is also in place. If you fly, we can’t! Along with private dip sites, aircraft are sourcing water out of Quemado Lake. Members of the public should avoid all areas where firefighting operations are occurring. An Area Closure Order is forthcoming for the Bear Fire.

Evacuations: The Catron County Emergency Management Office and Catron County Sheriffs are implementing the Ready, Set Go! method. Three of the identified zones of private land east of the fire, moved into SET status Thursday evening. Residents are encouraged to monitor official updates and be prepared for potential changing conditions.

Smoke: Smoke may be visible in and around surrounding communities today. Air quality will vary based on fire activity, weather, and wind patterns. Residents should monitor local conditions, reduce prolonged outdoor activity when smoke is present, and check the Air Quality Index before recreating or working outdoors. Sensitive groups should take extra precautions to limit smoke exposure. Continue following official incident updates for changing conditions. For real-time smoke conditions, visit https://fire.airnow.gov.

Fire Restrictions: The Gila National Forest is in Stage 1 Fire Restrictions due to long term severe drought in the Gila region, increased tree mortality across the forest, and forecasted hotter, drier weather conditions. Stage 1 Fire Restrictions limit campfires on forest land to designated recreation sites and campgrounds with constructed metal fire rings. Open burning is also prohibited in the unincorporated area of Catron County and in Catron County Fire District 30.

For more information:

Public Information: [email protected]

Incident Information:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/GilaNForest

InciWeb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/nmgnf-bear-fire

06/12/2026

🔥 Update June 11, 2026, 7:00 pm- The Bear Fire is highly active this afternoon and is currently estimated at 2,000 acres. Gusty winds are pushing the fire primarily to the south and southeast. The Bear Fire remains a full suppression incident. Firefighters and aerial resources are utilizing a mix of direct and indirect tactics to contain the fire.
Catron County Emergency Management & Catron Sheriff’s Office have placed Zones 2, 3 and 4 into evacuation status “Set”. Residents and visitors are encouraged to stay alert, monitor official updates, and be prepared for potentially changing conditions.
Smoke from the Bear Fire is visible from Apache Creek, Quemado, Reserve, Pie Town, Omega, Datil and the surrounding area and communities and may impact visibility on roadways, espsecially as smoke settles in the evening.
The Bear Fire is located 18 miles southeast of Quemado, NM, in Catron County on the Quemado District of the Gila National Forest, east of Mangas Mountain. To protect firefighter and public safety, forest visitors are asked to avoid the area.

06/11/2026