Photo Credit: KOAT- Sky 7
LOS LUNAS – Mandatory evacuations are underway near the Desert Willow Complex Fire in Los Lunas, previously known as the Cotton and Cotton 2 fires. Emergency officials have issued a “GO” status for residents on the east side of the river from Chughole Lane south to Main Street. A detailed evacuation map has been made available to the public.
According to KOAT-TV, the fire is human-caused. Valencia County Fire Chief Matt Propp said eyewitnesses saw suspects setting the fire on Sunday near the northeast side of the Los Lunas bridge. Two separate fires reportedly merged into a single active blaze, prompting the emergency response.
Areas on the west side of the river from Behnke Road to Los Lentas, extending south to Main Street, remain under a “Ready” status—meaning residents should prepare to evacuate if conditions worsen.
Evacuees are being directed to the Daniel Fernandez Recreation Center at 1103 NM-314. Those needing assistance with livestock should call the Valencia County Regional Communications Center at (505) 865-2039. Officials urge anyone who witnessed suspicious activity to contact Los Lunas Police or the Valencia County Sheriff’s Office.
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