What is the name and location of the wildfire?
As of June 23, 2026, the Bear Fire burned in Catron County, New Mexico, within the Quemado Ranger District of the Gila National Forest.
The wildfire was located approximately 18 miles southeast of Quemado and east of Mangas Mountain.
Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire?
The cities and areas affected by the Bear Fire included:
- Apache Creek
- Datil
- Omega
- Pie Town
- Quemado
-
Reserve
- Surrounding communities near the Gila National Forest
Smoke from the wildfire may have affected visibility and air quality in these communities, depending on fire activity and changing wind patterns.
What is the current containment status of the wildfire?
As of June 23, 2026, the Bear Fire had burned 7,769.2 acres and was 100% contained.
Firefighters used both direct and indirect suppression tactics to slow the fire's spread and protect critical infrastructure, private property, and natural resources. More than 200 personnel, supported by helicopters, fixed-wing aircraft, engines, dozers, and hand crews, were assigned to the incident (1).
Fire activity was influenced by dry weather, wind, steep terrain, and heavy fuel loads, making containment efforts challenging.
Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?
All evacuation warnings and alerts associated with the fire have been lifted following full containment of the incident.
Protect yourself from wildfire smoke
See how a wildfire smoke air purifier can help clean your air.
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.
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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 23, 2026, this fire was 100% contained.
