• Ten large, uncontained wildfires burning in Arizona, New Mexico, and California.
• Over 2,330 firefighters and support personnel deployed.
• Higher wildfire potential in Arizona and New Mexico predicted for June.

June 5, 2024 — The National Interagency Fire Center reports that as  of yesterday,  five states, including Arizona, New Mexico, and California, are dealing with significant wildfires. Specifically, Arizona is battling three major wildfires, New Mexico has two, and California has one. A substantial force of more than 2,330 wildland firefighters and support personnel is working to contain these fires. This force includes two complex incident management teams, over 45 crews, 132 engines, and 15 helicopters.

Year-to-Date Wildfire Statistics.

Since January 1, 2024, the United States has experienced 16,657 wildfires, which have burned nearly 1.97 million acres. While this number of wildfires is below the 10-year average, the total area burned is nearly double the usual amount.

Fire Potential Outlook.

The National Interagency Coordination Center’s National Predictive Services Staff has released its Wildland Fire Potential Outlook for June through September. Parts of Arizona and New Mexico are expected to face above-normal wildfire potential this month. For more details, you can visit the National Interagency Fire Center’s Outlook page.

Controlled Burn Safety Tips.

Controlled burns are a common method for disposing of debris, but they can quickly become wildfires if not handled properly. Here are some safety tips to follow:

• Check Weather Conditions: Pay attention to wind speed and direction. Always check for any burn bans or restrictions in your area before starting a fire.
• Safe Burning Practices: Only burn wood slash, yard debris, and similar materials when conditions are safe. Ensure there is enough space around the burn area to prevent fire spread.
• Containment Measures: Use a screen to cover burn barrels and keep hot embers from escaping. Avoid burning plastics and other materials that produce toxic smoke.
• Fire Control Tools: Keep a shovel and a water source, such as a hose, nearby. If the wind picks up, extinguish the fire immediately.
• Never Leave Unattended: Always supervise your burn to prevent it from getting out of control.

Weather Forecast.

Warmer temperatures are expected across much of the Western U.S., with scattered showers likely in the Northwest and northern Rockies. Relative humidity will vary, with some areas in southern Arizona and New Mexico experiencing very low levels.