Carson National Forest fire crews are continuing to suppress a small fire off Highway 518 to the east of Peñasco, New Mexico. The Osha Fire is located near the Las Mochas community along the Osha Trail (Trail #20) and is approximately 5-6 acres with 10% containment. It was first reported around 6:30 p.m. on Friday, April 22, after downed power lines ignited surrounding vegetation.
Three Forest Service engines are currently on scene to mitigate safety hazards and increase containment. Crews, with the help of the Peñasco Volunteer Fire Department, stopped the fire’s forward rate of spread Friday evening, completing handline around most of the fire’s edge and hose lay around half of it. The fire is located within the burn scar of the 2011 Osha Fire and is largely surrounded by natural barriers, such as rocks.
Fire staff are asking the public to slow down near the Osha Trailhead, where fire engines are staged. The trail will remain open, but the public is encouraged to find an alternative, such as the nearby Comales Canyon (#22) or Maes Canyon (#5) trails.
Strong winds and low humidity will continue, keeping fire danger high. The public should take extra caution with anything that could spark a fire. Carson National Forest fire crews have extended staffing to ensure readiness for any new fire starts.
Original source can be found here.
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