"This incident is notable for its rapid growth from 33 to 145 acres in just eight days and the substantial resource commitment, including up to 56 personnel and an estimated cost of $815,000, before achieving full containment."
The SUNSET wildfire, located 5 miles southwest of Arabela in Lincoln County, New Mexico, was first discovered on August 19, 2026, and is caused by natural factors under the jurisdiction of the USFS. The fire grew from 33 acres on August 20 to a peak of 145 acres by August 27, with containment remaining at 0% until August 28 when it reached 29% and eventually 62% by August 29. Over the following days containment increased steadily, reaching 80% on September 2 and full containment of 100% on September 8, while personnel numbers fluctuated from 29 to 56 and then down to 1 as the fire was extinguished. Estimated costs rose from $300,000 to $815,000 as resources were deployed and the fire was fully contained.
Official source description: 5 Miles SW from Arabela, NM
Minimal; Smoldering
Good air quality. Outdoor activity is generally safe near this incident.
Nearest reporting station: Carlsbad. Source: AirNow.gov (EPA).
The fire is now fully contained and behavior is minimal; standard wildfire safety precautions remain advised for the surrounding area.
IRWIN ID: {655EE18C-1722-44A4-B6B9-2A396A25D39A}
Discovered: Aug 19, 2026
Cause: Natural
Managing Agency: USFS
Est. Cost to Date: $815,000
Coordinates: 33.5683, -105.2322
Other wildfires that have recently been contained or dropped from official tracking in NM.
The SUNSET Fire has burned 145 acres as of September 8, 2026.
Yes, the SUNSET Fire is fully contained (100%).
The official cause has been listed as: Natural.
The SUNSET Fire is burning in Lincoln, NM.
Yes, as of the latest official update, the SUNSET Fire remains active.
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