New Mexico residents evacuated as Frijoles Fire surges to about 8,000 acres

Smoke from the growing Frijoles Fire has spread across northern New Mexico.

The blaze's rapid growth has driven some residents of the village of Cundiyó from their homes. As it pushed to nearly 7,800 acres, Santa Fe County moved to urgent evacuation measures, according to the Santa Fe New Mexican.

What happened?

As the wildfire expanded, smoke reduced visibility and affected air quality in multiple communities across north-central New Mexico. County officials issued an evacuation order this week for about 10 homes along Camino del Cañon in Cundiyó, and nearby Cordova residents are packing belongings in case the situation shifts.

Officials also said a shelter for evacuees opened in the gym at Pojoaque Valley Middle School.

Why is this concerning?

Wildfire smoke poses a major health risk. Fine particles can irritate the eyes and throat, trigger asthma, and worsen heart and lung conditions.

They can particularly be harmful to children, older adults, and people with existing respiratory issues. Even residents outside the evacuation area may need to stay indoors or adjust daily routines to reduce exposure.

Worsening extreme weather disasters like the Frijoles Fire endanger lives and livelihoods. A growing body of research has linked wildfire smoke to tens of thousands of deaths a year in the U.S., and fast-moving fires can strain local economies as evacuations disrupt work, close roads, and force families from their homes on short notice.

What's being done?

The immediate response has focused on evacuating the area under the greatest threat, alerting nearby communities, and setting up the Pojoaque Valley Middle School gym to shelter displaced residents.

You can keep yourself and people around you safer by paying attention to the air quality index, or AQI, in your area. If you have to go outside during a wildfire, the Environmental Protection Agency recommends wearing a well-fitting respirator.

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