Fire and Smoke Map in New Mexico. Courtesy/AirNow
New Mexico Forestry Division News:
The New Mexico Forestry Division would like to inform readers about a wildfire that is requiring the attention of suppression resources in New Mexico. Resources are on scene at the Perch Fire southeast of Santa Rosa near Perch Lake.
The fire was discovered at 12:50 p.m. today, March 30, and is active and making runs in grass and brush fuels. Spot fires crossed over N.M. 91 and the fire is making an eastern push. Structures are threatened, including the Santa Rosa Airport. “GO” status evacuations are in place for N.M. 91, mile marker 1 to 6 on the east side.
Air resources have been called in to assist on the fire and ground resources are employing full suppression tactics.
The Perch Fire is estimated at 10-15 acres and 0% contained.
Evacuations / Closures: “GO” status for N.M. 91, mile marker 1 to 6 on the east side. N.M. 91 going south is closed, but traffic will be allowed to leave the area.
Visibility in the area will be reduced, and roads/evacuation routes can become blocked; Guadalupe County is advising residents to leave now. All information per Guadalupe County.
Learn more about the Ready Set Go system by visiting emnrd.nm.gov/sfd/fire-prevention-programs/ready-set-go-new-mexico/.
Shelters: Santa Rosa Blue Hole Convention Center, 1085 Blue Hole Rd, Santa Rosa, NM 88435.
Weather: 84 degrees, 10 percent RH, winds at 24 mph with gusts to 31 mph. Tonight, mostly cloudy with a low around 52 and west winds at 10-15 mph.
Details:
- Acres: 100 estimated.
- Containment: 0%
- Start Date/Time: 12:50 p.m., Monday, March 30, 2026.
- Fuels: Grass, brush.
- Cause: Under investigation.
- Location: Southeast of Santa Rosa, NM near Perch Lake.
- Ownership: Private.
- Structure Threat: Structures threatened, including Santa Rosa Airport.
- Resources: Forestry Division, Guadalupe County, Santa Rosa Volunteer Fire Department, Bernalillo County, Town of Bernalillo, City of Santa Fe, Albuquerque Fire Rescue, Quay County Districts 1 and 2.
Health and Safety:
- Smoke: Individuals sensitive to wildfire smoke should take precautions and use the New Mexico Department of Health 5-3-1 Visibility Method to determine if it’s safe to be outside. Learn more at New Mexico Environmental Public Health Tracking portal and zoom in on the latest smoke conditions on the AirNow Fire and Smoke Map.
- Safety: The health and safety of firefighters and the public are always the first priority. Information on air quality and protecting your health can be found online at the New Mexico Department of Health Environmental Public Health Tracking website. The Forest Stewards Guild offers a HEPA Filter Loan Program that are available on a first come/first served basis. Additional information on air filters and the HEPA loan program is available via Santa Fe Fireshed Coalition.
