CATRON COUNTY – Firefighters are working to contain the Bear Fire burning in the Gila National Forest in Catron County.<\/p>\n
The wildfire is located about 23 miles southeast of Quemado on the Quemado District of the Gila National Forest. As of Monday evening, the fire was estimated at 60 acres.<\/p>\n
Forest officials said hot, dry and windy conditions continued to support active fire behavior in heavy forest fuels and brush. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.<\/p>\n
Approximately 80 firefighters are assigned to the fire and are using a direct attack strategy to stop the spread. Large air tankers and single-engine air tankers assisted earlier with retardant drops, but high winds later grounded aircraft.<\/p>\n
Forest visitors are being asked to avoid the area for firefighter and public safety.<\/p>\n
Updates will be provided as new information becomes available.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"