Wildfire — Jemez Mountains, New Mexico

2025-07-11 to 2025-07-16 · Jemez Mountains, New Mexico

Event narrative

The Laguna Wildfire was a lightning started fire originally discovered June 25th and managed in an area of the Santa Fe National Forest roughly 25 miles west of Abiquiu. The fire was managed until a spot fire was discovered outside of the containment lines July 11th. A period of very dry and breezy conditions conducive to fire growth ensued during this time. The Laguna Fire quickly grew from 11,334 acres to 15,714 acres on July 16th, an increase of 4,380 acres before increased monsoonal moisture and rainfall helped fire suppression activities. The Gallina Ranch underwent evacuation orders and smoke impacts. The Vigil Ranch reported 75 of 120 total head of cattle missing after the fires at $5,000 per head. Cattle that was found had injuries to hooves and udders. Damage was based on this estimate.

Wider weather episode

The lightning started turned managed Laguna Wildfire was originally discovered June 25th. A spot fire was discovered outside the containment lines June 11th that resulted in rapid fire growth until July 16th, growing from 11,334 acres to 15,714 acres. Evacuations were ordered for the Gallina Ranch. There were no reports of lost property or injuries.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1264282. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.