"The fire’s rapid growth from 60 to 90 acres within a single hour highlights a potentially aggressive spread, while the later reduction to 75 acres indicates a shift in behavior that warrants continued monitoring. The lack of containment data underscores the need for updated information to assess risk to nearby communities."
The Murtle wildfire, located in Union County, New Mexico, was first discovered on September 7, 2026, and remains active as of the latest update. Initial reports on September 8 indicated the fire had burned 60 acres, expanding to 90 acres an hour later; however, a subsequent report on September 9 shows a reduction to 75 acres, suggesting some containment or natural regression. No official containment percentage, personnel deployment, fire behavior, weather conditions, evacuation orders, or estimated cost have been released. The cause of the fire remains undetermined, and the jurisdictional agency responsible has not been identified.
Good air quality. Outdoor activity is generally safe near this incident.
Nearest reporting station: Lamar. Source: AirNow.gov (EPA).
General wildfire safety guidance applies: stay informed through local authorities, avoid the area if possible, and be prepared for changing conditions.
IRWIN ID: {CA7C44CC-4C44-4180-B5B3-7C7E369CF934}
Discovered: Sep 7, 2026
Cause: Natural
Coordinates: 36.9825, -103.0758
Other wildfires that have recently been contained or dropped from official tracking in NM.
The Murtle Fire has burned 75 acres as of September 9, 2026.
The Murtle Fire has not yet reached any official containment.
The official cause has been listed as: Natural.
The Murtle Fire is burning in Union, NM.
No, the Murtle Fire is no longer listed as active by NIFC.
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