New Wildfire Erupts in Quay County: 352 Fire Burns 1,000 Acres Near San Jon, Threatening Structures

Alamogordo, NM – February 9, 2026 — A fast-moving wildfire ignited Monday afternoon in eastern New Mexico, prompting immediate response from state and local resources amid windy, dry conditions.

The 352 Fire was discovered at approximately 12:30 p.m. near Interstate 40 at mile marker 352, north of the small community of San Jon in Quay County. Driven by strong southwest winds, the blaze has spread rapidly through grass and brush fuels, reaching an estimated 1,000 acres with 0% containment as of the latest reports.

Smoke from the fire is visible from I-40 and surrounding areas, creating hazardous conditions for motorists and residents. Structures are threatened, and local officials, in coordination with county and state teams, are conducting house-to-house notifications to assist with evacuations or preparations. State Road 469 remains closed north of San Jon, and residents are urged to avoid the area and exercise caution.

Resources on scene include personnel from the New Mexico Forestry Division, Quay County, Las Vegas, Santa Fe, Angel Fire, and other local units, supported by the New Mexico State Police. The cause of the fire is under active investigation.

Weather conditions at the time of discovery included temperatures around 76°F, relative humidity at 9%, and southwest winds of 20-25 mph with gusts up to 35 mph—factors contributing to the fire’s rapid growth. Overnight forecasts call for mostly cloudy skies with lows near 40°F and winds shifting northerly after midnight, potentially offering some relief but still posing risks.

No injuries or structure losses have been reported at this early stage, but the situation remains dynamic due to the wind-driven nature of the fire.

For the most current updates, residents and travelers should monitor official sources including the New Mexico Fire Information website and the Forestry Division’s social media channels.

As of the evening of February 9, 2026, no significant further updates beyond the initial 1,000-acre estimate and 0% containment have been issued in available sources. The fire remains active, and conditions could change rapidly; check official channels for real-time developments.

Citations:

• New Mexico Fire Info: https://nmfireinfo.com/2026/02/09/wildfire-notification-352-fire-quay-county/

• New Mexico Forestry Division (@NMForestry) post on X, February 9, 2026

• Additional context from The Hotshot Wake Up (@HotshotWake) and other X posts, February 9, 2026

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