Potential Smoke Impacts from Wildfires across New Mexico

State of New Mexico Joint Information Center: Potential Smoke Impacts from Wildfires across New Mexico. State Agencies Remind Residents to Take Precautions to Protect Health and Be Ready!

As wildfire season picks up across New Mexico, the New Mexico Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (NMDHSEM), the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH), and New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) remind residents to take precautions to protect their health from the hazards of wildfire smoke and be prepared for the unknown. 

Smoke from wildfires can have health impacts on residents in areas near burning fires. Additionally, wildfire smoke from neighboring regions and states can also degrade local air quality, even when a fire may be far away. Wildfires can spread rapidly giving only short notice to residents to evacuate. Be prepared for the unknown. Have your “Go Bag” ready and include the items listed in the Emergency Supply Kit Construction page for basic disaster supplies.

Weather is expected to stay hot and dry throughout the weekend. There will be some relief on Sunday with lower temperatures and potential of lightning on Monday.

Smoke can hurt your eyes, irritate your respiratory system, and intensify chronic heart and lung problems. Residents with respiratory or heart disease, asthma, adults 65 and older, young children, and pregnant women should be aware of air quality in their community and take appropriate action, including potentially relocating until air quality improves.

For the latest information on wildfires burning throughout New Mexico, visit the New Mexico Fire Information page. Download the New Mexico Family Preparedness Guide for disaster planning tips.

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We would be happy to provide additional information about this press release. Simply contact David Morgan at 575-528-5197 (Office) or 575-649-0754 (Mobile) with your questions.

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