Airtankers, Fighting Fire from Lightning Strike Near Alamogordo

Photo Courtesy Nicholas Sauceda

A fire in the foothills above and east of Alamogordo was started by a lightning strike Saturday evening , a Lincoln National Forest. A local 16 year old Nicholas Sauceda via his grandfather provided us some great photos.

Two single-engine air tankers are fighting the fire, which is along the west mesa of Hershberger Peak. Additional ground crews were also sent to the scene. 

Neighbors in Alamogordo watched as the tankers flew overhead dropped their payload and then swung back over the city. 

No homes or structures were threatened, but there was concern that the fire might spread, the spokesperson said.

Spokesmen felt with the air support this fire should be contained within the day. Winds were a risk.

Alamogordo was shaken with significant lightning both Friday and Saturday nights in the hillsides. Random power surges were felt throughout the city Friday between the heat, rains and thunderstorms. 

Stay tuned for further updates. 

More News from Alamogordo

• U.S. Attorney Alexander Uballez New Mexico District Resigns Per Presidential Request U.S. Attorney Alexander Uballez to Step Down, Concluding Impactful Tenure in New Mexico
• U.S. Attorney's Office Secures Guilty Plea in Firearms and Drug Trafficking Scheme U.S. Attorney's Office Secures Guilty Plea in Firearms and Drug Trafficking Scheme