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SILVER CITY, NM, June 13, 2024 –Firefighters have made substantial progress on the Antone Fire. Crews will be securing the perimeter simultaneously with ignitions being conducted on the northern half of the fire. Mop-up continues on the southern portion. There are currently 150 personnel assigned to the incident.

“Unfortunately, smoke is a byproduct of all fires and sadly it’s unavoidable,” said Quemado District Ranger and long-time local, Randall Chavez. “We appreciate the public’s patience and support while firefighters complete their work.”

The temperatures have been warm, and the relative humidity remains low, impacting fire behavior. A quarter-acre spot fire was observed on Wednesday. Firefighters contained it quickly and will continue patrols today and tomorrow. They are also maintaining heightened awareness for Friday's forecasted increased winds and a chance of thunderstorms in the afternoon.

The type 3 team continues to manage the fire using the confine and contain strategy, which involves the interchangeable usage of direct and indirect suppression and point protection tactics. This strategy is subject to change based on evolving conditions. The management objectives include fire fighter safety, protecting values at risk, reduce fuel loads, improve habitat and the continuation of restoration work in the Slaughter Mesa area. News releases will be provided every other day or if there are significant updates.

Closure Order No. 03-06-03-24-001 is in effect until rescinded. Review the closure order map, marked Exhibit A. Both documents can be found on the Gila National Forest Alerts and Closures webpage at https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/gila/alerts-notices

Smoke may be seen from US Highway 60, NM Highway 12, the Community of Quemado, Quemado Lake Estates, Pie Town, Datil, Horse Springs, Apache Creek, and Reserve. View an interactive smoke map at https://fire.airnow.gov/. Learn more about smoke impacts at https://www.env.nm.gov/air-quality/fire-smoke-links/.

More info and links as needed. For more information contact Maribeth Pecotte at 575-388-8211 or Maribeth.Pecotte@usda.gov.

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