Whitewater-Baldy Fire 15 percent contained
Posted at: 06/02/2012 9:21 AM
| Updated at: 06/02/2012 7:51 PM
By: Shaun Griswold, KOB.com
 Photo by Mark Pater, Courtesy US Forest Service Gila National Forest |
Fire crews have contained 15 percent of the Whitewater-Baldy Fire that has burned more than 227,000 acres in southwestern New Mexico.
On Friday, crews battled the state's largest fire in history along its perimeter near Mogollon, N.M. and expect to monitor that same area on Saturday.
Burnout operations also took place around the Black Mountain Lookout Tower.
The western portion of the fire will be highly visible this weekend as officials say the fire is expected to blaze along the Black Mountain.
Heavy smoke and flames will be visible in the Glenwood community, where some evacuees are located. Smoke is expected to move southeast, but stay above ground. Reserve and Silver City could also expect heavy smoke coverage. People with serious lung conditions, older adults and children are advised to avoid prolonged outdoor activities.
Click this link to learn more about how the fire will impact surrounding communities.
Several national park restrictions are still in place, including the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, the Catwalk Area and Pueblo Creek Crossing.
For a complete list of closings and restrictions click this link.
Stay with KOB Eyewitness New for the latest on the Whitewater-Baldy Fire.
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