Emergency crews in New Mexico are making significant progress in containing the two deadly Ruidoso wildfires that have wreaked havoc in the area for over a week. According to the Lincoln County Office of Emergency Services, as of Tuesday, the South Fork fire is 54 percent contained, while the Salt fire is reportedly 38 percent contained.

A total of 12 crews, eight helicopters, 61 engines, nine bulldozers, and 18 water tenders are currently actively engaged in the effort to extinguish both wildfires. The tireless work of these crews, combined with the recent scattered storms, has contributed to curtailing the growth of the fires. Despite causing some flooding, the rain did not hinder the firefighters, who were able to navigate around the flood to continue their containment operations.

Moving forward, the Lincoln County Office of Emergency Services outlined their plans to focus on mopping up hot spots until full containment is achieved. Additionally, efforts will be made to remove hazardous trees and secure the perimeter of the fires. The crews also intend to assist utility cooperators in accessing affected areas to assess the damage caused.

As residents begin to return to their homes, they are faced with the devastating aftermath of the wildfires. The combined total area burned by the two wildfires currently stands at 25,503 acres. The extent of the damage is vast, and residents will have to overcome the challenges posed by the ongoing restrictions.

The Lincoln County authorities urge the tribal members who have been displaced from the Mescalero Apache Reservation due to the fires to contact the Tribe's Emergency Operations Center at 575-464-9214 for assistance in returning to the reservation.

For more information and updates on the containment efforts, residents and concerned individuals can visit the websites of the Lincoln County Office at lincolncountynm.gov and the Ruidoso town at ruidoso-nm.gov/south-fork-fire.

Despite the progress made in containing the wildfires, the road to recovery will be long and arduous for the residents of Ruidoso. As they face the devastation and ongoing restrictions, the community will rally together to rebuild and support one another during this challenging time.