A wildfire at Fort Stanton Historical Site in southern New Mexico has burned structures and forced evacuations, according to AP News.
Authorities reported that buildings constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s were damaged, along with a gym built by German internees during World War II.
The U.S. Bureau of Land Management confirmed that over one square mile of terrain was affected. Firefighting efforts included helicopters, air tankers, and ground crews.
Laura Rabon, spokesperson for the multiagency response team, said on Monday that crews were working to clear vegetation lines on the fire’s northern perimeter.
Helicopters were used to cool smoldering areas, and 4% of the fire’s perimeter had been contained by Monday afternoon.
BLM reported that fire activity slowed due to lower temperatures and 10 mph winds. An investigator is scheduled to determine the fire’s origin.
The fire led to the evacuation of three nearby camping areas and a private horse ranch.
Authorities said a family of four and their horses were evacuated Sunday but had since returned. Highway 220 was closed to give fire crews clear access to the site.
More than 70 personnel have been involved in suppressing the blaze. Fort Stanton Historical Site remains closed.
In Arizona, a separate wildfire in the Santa Catalina Mountains northeast of Tucson has also prompted evacuations and caused damage.
According to fire officials, over 500 personnel responded to that fire, which destroyed five homes in the Oracle area.
Evacuation orders were lifted for some areas on Monday, though restrictions remain in place elsewhere.
A wildfire burned structures at Fort Stanton Historical Site in New Mexico.
The site includes buildings from the 1930s and World War II.
The fire covered over one square mile of terrain.
The U.S. Bureau of Land Management is managing the response.
Crews used helicopters and air tankers to slow the fire.
Authorities said 4% of the fire’s boundary had been contained.
Evacuations included a family and horses from a private ranch.
Highway 220 near Fort Stanton was closed.
The historical site and nearby campgrounds were evacuated.
A fire investigator will begin work on Tuesday.
Fire conditions eased due to lower temperatures and wind.
A separate fire in Arizona destroyed five homes.
More than 500 people responded to the Arizona fire.
Evacuations in Arizona were partly lifted.
Both fires are under active management by authorities.
