SILVER CITY, N.M. – Officials put the Willow Creek subdivision under GO evacuation status as the Sacaton Fire burns south of the area and keeps New Mexico Highway 159 closed.
The Catron County Sheriff’s Office said on Facebook that the Gila National Forest recommended the GO status for Willow Creek because of fire conditions south of the subdivision.
The sheriff’s office and emergency management offices agreed with that recommendation.
The lightning-caused Sacaton Fire was detected Sunday, June 21, in the Gila Wilderness about 3.5 miles west of the Mogollon Baldy Lookout and about 12.5 miles southeast of Glenwood.
Officials also ordered a closure for trails inside the area to protect public health and safety where crews are fighting the fire and where fire danger remains active.
New Mexico Highway 159 is closed east of Mogollon to Willow Creek.
The smoke from periods of moderate fire behavior is visible from the Gila Cliff Dwellings to the east, from Lordsburg to the south, along U.S. Route 180 to the west and from Quemado to the north.
Officials reminded residents that Level 1, Ready means people should prepare for a possible evacuation, review plans and pack a go-kit.
Level 2, Set means substantial danger is nearby and people should be ready to leave at any moment.
Level 3, Go, Now! means immediate evacuation is required.
