Wildfire Map Spotlight: Buck Fire, New Mexico

What is the name and location of the wildfire?

As of June 18, 2025, the Buck Fire is blazing across 58,063 acres of rural wilderness in Catron County, New Mexico (1). The fire is burning southwest of Highway 60, near Aragon and the Gila National Forest.

Southwest New Mexico is experiencing some of the most extreme drought in the United States (2). The Buck Fire and the nearby Trout Fire are both being fed by dry grass, brush, and woodland (3).

Which cities or areas are affected by the Buck Fire?

The Buck Fire is affecting residents near Aragon and southwest of Highway 60.

Wildfire smoke from the Buck Fire and the Trout Fire has recently affected air quality in Silver City and other nearby communities.

What is the current containment status of the Buck Fire?

As of June 18, 2025, the Buck Fire is 25% contained (4).

Firefighters are actively working on strengthening control lines and using aviation resources to limit the fire's progression. However, gusty and erratic winds have contributed to increased fire activity and growth, posing challenges to containment efforts.

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

There have been evacuation orders issued for areas near the Buck Fire. Parts of NM 163, NM 15, and NM 35 are closed and designated for evacuation use only.

Residents in the vicinity are advised to stay informed through local authorities for the latest updates on road conditions and safety instructions.

How can I protect myself from wildfire smoke?

Always plan ahead to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.

• Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
• Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
  
• Run a high-performance air purifier to filter wildfire smoke.
  
• Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
• Stay indoors; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.

As of June 18, 2025, this fire is 25% contained.