The Lincoln National Forest in Southern New Mexico which sprawls across Otero County and Lincoln Counties and onto the Mescalero Apache Tribal lands has experienced a series of fires with the most recent ones dubbed the Skyline Fire, Seven Springs Fire, and the Power Line Fire.

The Skyline Fire now has crews at the scene from the State Forestry Service, Lincoln County Office of Emergency Services and Fire & Rescue, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, and firefighters from the towns of Hondo, Glencoe and Arabella, as well as two air tankers.

The Seven Springs Fire is active and the fire is holding at 805 acres, and remains at 0% containment. Today’s weather conditions are expected to present additional challenges, as thunderstorms are forecasted to develop east of the fire zone. Additionally, winds are anticipated to come from the southwest, with gusts reaching between 20 to 25 miles per hour.

Daily Briefing: Seven Springs Fire Incident
Issued by the Southwest Area Incident Management Team Updated: June 22, 2025

“We are dedicated to providing you with timely and accurate information regarding the ongoing situation with the Seven Springs Fire. Today, we bring you the latest developments and essential details to keep you informed and safe.

Wildfire Perimeter Map:
Attached is the current wildfire perimeter map, illustrating the extent of the fire’s reach. This visual representation is crucial for understanding the affected areas and planning your safety.

Smoke Outlook and Health Advisory:
The smoke generated by the Seven Springs Fire could significantly impact air quality in the vicinity. It is imperative to stay aware of local air quality reports and take appropriate measures, especially for those with pre-existing respiratory conditions or other health vulnerabilities. If you experience any discomfort or health issues related to smoke inhalation, please seek medical advice promptly.

We encourage everyone to remain vigilant and prioritize personal safety as the situation evolves. We sincerely appreciate your understanding and cooperation during this challenging time. Together, we can navigate through this situation with resilience.”

A new fire dubbed the Power Line Fire has now been discovered and growing. It was discovered in Otero County on June 21, 2025, at 8:55 a.m., according to wildfire databases. The cause of the “POWERLINE” fire is listed as human. This fire was categorized as a wildfire.

Adding to the stress of the area is the National Weather Service has issued a flash flood watch that includes Otero, Lincoln Counties and areas of Mescalero that are fire scarred.

A portion of central New Mexico, including the following area, South Central Mountains. This includes Ruidoso and the burn scars surrounding the village.

WHEN: From Monday morning through Wednesday evening.

IMPACTS: Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Flooding may occur in poor drainage and urban areas. Low-water crossings and village streets may be flooded. Storm drains and ditches may become clogged with debris.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS: Multiple rounds of heavy rainfall are expected between Monday and Wednesday as a rich monsoon plume shifts over the area. Rainfall rates may reach 3 inches per hour at times. Though chances for flooding and heavy rainfall are generally higher in the afternoon, precipitation will occur on and off, day and night. Areas within and downstream of the Blue 2, McBride, South Fork and Salt burn scars will be especially susceptible to flooding and debris flows.

For more information visit- http://www.weather.gov/abq/EmergencyPrepFlood