Crews fight New Mexico fires as some evacuations lift

RUIDOSO, N.M. (AP) — Authorities have lifted some evacuation orders for a southern New Mexico mountain community hit by wildfire. Firefighters were working on Saturday to contain a wind-driven blaze that killed two people and destroyed over 200 homes.

A Village of Ruidoso spokesperson said about 60% of the estimated 4,500 people who were told to evacuate since the fire started Tuesday were allowed to return home late Friday. Evacuation estimates were previously reported to be around 5,000 people. Specific numbers weren’t immediately available.

Fire incident commander Dave Bales said crews on Saturday worked to put out hot spots and clear lines along the fire’s perimeter to keep the fire from spreading.