Wind-Fueled Beehive Fire Grows to 1,864 Acres

The Beehive Fire, discovered following lightning activity in Carson National Forest, has grown to 1,864 acres as of Saturday. The wildfire is approaching the Lamy Peak area, located between Tres Piedras and the Colorado border. Wildland fire crews faced powerful winds over the weekend in their efforts to control the blaze, which was first reported early Friday afternoon. As of Sunday morning, the fire remained 0% contained.

Approximately 200 personnel are actively working to establish containment lines, utilizing Forest Service roads and natural barriers. Six dozers have been deployed to construct fuel breaks, supporting the containment efforts. The Northern New Mexico Type 3 Incident Management Team has been assigned due to the fire's increasing complexity. A Red Flag Warning for high winds and low humidity was in effect on Sunday.

While the exact cause of the Beehive Fire is under investigation, lightning activity was noted in the area prior to its discovery. Nationally, human activity accounts for roughly 85% of wildfires. New Mexico's monsoon season, characterized by strong winds, heavy rain, and lightning, began this month and typically extends through late September. Burn bans are in effect statewide due to high wildfire risk, with Stage 1 fire restrictions currently in place for Carson National Forest and Stage 2 restrictions set to begin on Tuesday.