Sago Fire Update:

by Mescalero Apache Tribe | March 28, 2026 10:01 am

Sago Fire Community Update

We’re reaching out to provide you with the latest information regarding the Sago Fire, which has been actively impacting the Mescalero Reservation since it was initially reported on Thursday, March 26, 2026. The fire has now consumed approximately 250 acres and is located 19 miles east of Mescalero, NM. The management of this incident has transitioned to the Gila Las Cruces Type 3 Incident Management Team, effective as of 5 p.m. yesterday.

Current Situation:

• Personnel Involved: A total of 133 skilled firefighters and support personnel are currently engaged in firefighting efforts.
• Containment Status: As of now, containment efforts are at 0%, but teams are actively working to combat the blaze.
• Fire Dynamics: The flames are spreading rapidly due to extremely dry fuels and strong winds. Firefighters are establishing containment lines on the ground, utilizing engines, hotshot crews, and bulldozer support to secure the area.
• Aerial Assistance: Large air tankers are being deployed to help contain the fire’s expansion.

Weather Conditions:

• Saturday Forecast: We anticipate calmer winds, with gusts potentially reaching up to 20 mph. The high temperature is expected to be around 62°F.
• Sunday Outlook: Temperatures are predicted to rise further, reaching 70°F.

Important Safety Guidelines:

• Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR): A flight restriction is in place over the fire area. We urge everyone to refrain from operating drones, as they pose a significant risk to aerial firefighting operations.
• Road Advisory: Although there are no official closure orders at this time, we strongly advise the public to avoid traveling on Sago Canyon Road and Turkey Canyon Road to ensure the safety of our firefighting crews. Fire Restrictions:
• Class III High Fire Danger:
• Campfires are permitted only within designated areas, specifically at Silver Lake.
• The use of fireworks is strictly prohibited during this high fire danger period.
• When using chainsaws or other combustion engines, it is mandatory to have a properly functioning spark arrestor installed.

We would like to express our deepest gratitude to the incredible teams working tirelessly on the front lines. Their resources include:

• 6 fire engines
• 1 water tender
• 2 bulldozers
• 1 hotshot crew
• 1 twenty-person contract crew
• 1 helicopter base manager

Thank you for your cooperation and support during this challenging time. We will continue to provide updates as the situation evolves. Please stay safe!

Source URL: https://mescaleroapachetribe.com/25448/sago-fire-update/

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