Evacuations Ordered as South Fork Fire Spreads

An emergency evacuation order was issued for the village of Ruidoso, New Mexico, on Monday, June 17, as the South Fork Fire grew to more than 5,000 acres.

Ruidoso officials urged locals to leave immediately in a Facebook post shortly before 7 pm.

“Please do not try to gather belongings or protect your home – GO NOW,” the post read.

Footage captured published by a local business shows smoke filling the sky over Ruidoso. Credit: Ruidoso Pinon Park Condo – Unit A4 via Storyful