Residents of a New Mexico village are in panic as two wildfires sweep through a nearby mountain range, causing evacuations and claiming one life. According to the BBC, the South Fork Fire and the Salt Fire have converged near Ruidoso, prompting the evacuation of its 7,800 residents. The fires have scorched over 20,000 acres and remain completely uncontained.
New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham declared a state of emergency, saying, "The horrific South Fork Fire and Salt Fire have ravaged our lands and property, and forced thousands to flee their homes." She confirmed one fatality, though details remain undisclosed. NPR reported that the governor praised the generosity and compassion of New Mexicans helping those affected by the fires.
