RUIDOSO – The Seven Cabins Fire, which has been linked to a deadly medical plane crash in the Capitan Mountains, more than doubled in size over the weekend and remains 0% contained.
Fire officials said the fire had grown to 8,971 acres as of Sunday evening. That was up from 6,361 acres Sunday morning and 2,645 acres Saturday evening.
Fire managers said significant winds and lighter fuels pushed the fire to the northeast Saturday and Sunday. Officials expected those conditions to continue overnight into Monday, with low humidity and strong winds creating continued challenges for crews.
A total of 226 personnel are assigned to the fire.
Crews worked Sunday in eastern areas, including Pine Lodge, where homes and other structures are at risk. Firefighters also worked in the Shippy Ranch and Angel Ranch areas on the west and northwest sides of the fire, preparing homes and other structures for possible fire impacts and working to protect threatened property.
Aircraft also have been used on the fire, making aerial suppressant drops to help prepare and protect buildings at risk. Fire officials said there are expected to be “lots of moving parts” in and around Capitan and along Highway 246 as fire operations continue.
The Seven Cabins Fire has prompted evacuations for residents north of the Capitan Mountains.
The fire has been linked to a medical plane crash that killed four people in the Capitan Mountains. Trans Aero MedEvac, the owner of the aircraft, confirmed the identities of those killed on Saturday.
By John Krehbiel – Bravo Mic Communications – john@bravomic.com
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