Ruidoso South Fork & Salt Wildfires
The City of El Paso understands many people are eager to assist with the ongoing South Fork and Salt fires around the Village of Ruidoso. Here’s what you need to know and how you can help:
Current Situation
The South Fork and Salt fires, discovered on Monday, June 17, 2024, continue to pose significant risks to Ruidoso. As of now, New Mexico authorities have not requested assistance from El Paso. Team El Paso remains in constant communication with our counterparts in New Mexico and stands at the ready to support if called upon as requested. If you wish to learn more please visit: https://www.ruidoso-nm.gov/south-fork-fire
Protocol for Assistance
Requests for resources begin at the Ruidoso local government level to the State of New Mexico. If additional resources are needed, New Mexico will make a request to FEMA. State-to-state mutual aid is available at the request of the New Mexico Governor to the Texas Governor or to other neighboring states. Any formal requests from New Mexico to El Paso will be coordinated through the El Paso Office of Emergency Management (OEM).
The City and OEM continues to monitor the situation closely and are prepared to provide assistance should the need arise. Thank you for your concern and support for the affected communities.
Effective Donations
Monetary donations are strongly preferred and the quickest way of provide support to those impacted. Physical donations are appreciated but can often burden response personnel and divert resources from critical tasks.
How You Can Help
For those looking to support Ruidoso residents, we encourage you to consider the following:
- American Red Cross in New Mexico: (505) 265-8514
- Community Foundation of Lincoln County
- Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico: Greatest Needs Impact Fund for Lincoln & Otero
- Paso Del Norte Community Foundation: Wildfire Relief Fund
- Donation Drop-off Points:
- Roswell National Guard Armory: 1 W. Earl Cummings Loop, Roswell, NM 8 am to 6 pm. 575-317-1828
- Tularosa Community Center: 1050 N. Bookout Rd., Tularosa, NM, 8 am to 8 pm. 575-921-8510
Thank you for your concern and support for the affected communities.
City of El Paso Mayor Issues Statement Regarding Ruidoso Wildfire
"The bravery shown by the first responders in Ruidoso is admirable, and the strength and resilience of Ruidoso’s residents as they face this terrible tragedy demonstrates the strength and unity of their community. I have been moved by the swift action and generosity of El Pasoans who have quickly provided assistance in multiple ways, and by the way this whole region has mobilized to help our New Mexico neighbors. We ask our community to join in prayer for all those affected by this devastating disaster."
Oscar Leeser
City of El Paso Mayor