Wildfire — Curry County, New Mexico

2023-04-17 · Curry County, New Mexico

Event narrative

Multiple brush fires caused by sparks from a fire truck grew out of control in eastern Clovis. Three unoccupied outbuildings were damaged by the fire, demolished after the fire was brought under control. No injuries or casualties were reported. Damage cost based on the unoccupied buildings being demolished.

Wider weather episode

An unnamed brush fire was reported in eastern Clovis, started by sparks coming off a dragging hydraulic plate on a fire truck transporting an aerial unit into town. In fact multiple fires were started as the truck continued down State Highway 523. The brush fires quickly grew due to southerly to southwesterly winds gusting 25 to 35 mph with very low humidity. The fires threatened multiple structures including horse stables, barns, and homes. Thankfully only three unoccupied outbuildings were damaged. These structures were demolished after the fire was brought under control late that evening.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1082122. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.