"This incident is notable primarily because it is a newly identified wildfire in a remote area, and its rapid reporting to NIFC indicates potential for growth. The lack of containment and limited data underscore the need for monitoring and potential resource allocation."
The SMITH wildfire was discovered on 2026-09-19 at 22:09:35 in Lea County, New Mexico, and is currently active under the jurisdiction of the BLM. As of the latest update at 23:20:03, the fire has burned 10 acres with no containment reported. The cause remains undetermined. No personnel, cost estimates, or fire behavior details have been released, so the situation remains largely unknown beyond the initial acreage.
Moderate air quality. Unusually sensitive individuals should consider reducing prolonged outdoor exertion.
Nearest reporting station: Hobbs. Source: AirNow.gov (EPA).
General wildfire safety guidance applies: stay informed through local authorities, avoid the area if possible, and be prepared to evacuate if conditions worsen.
IRWIN ID: {96C64BB1-615D-4CB3-AA05-B067083E0D7B}
Discovered: Sep 19, 2026
Cause: Human
Managing Agency: BLM
Coordinates: 32.5899, -103.6255
Other wildfires that have recently been contained or dropped from official tracking in NM.
The SMITH Fire has burned 10 acres as of September 19, 2026.
The SMITH Fire has not yet reached any official containment.
The official cause has been listed as: Human.
The SMITH Fire is burning in Lea, NM.
No, the SMITH Fire is no longer listed as active by NIFC.
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