What is the name and location of the wildfire?
As of May 3, 2026, the Sparks Fire is burning in Quay County in northeastern New Mexico, near Highway 156 at mile marker 41, approximately 16 miles northwest of House.
The fire is located in a remote area north of Hassell and is fueled by grass and piñon-juniper vegetation, contributing to its continued spread (1).
Which cities or areas are affected by the wildfire?
The cities and areas affected by the Sparks Fire include:
- Broadview
- Grady
- Hassell
- House
- Melrose
- Porter
- Tucumcari
These areas are either directly impacted or supporting firefighting and emergency response efforts due to their proximity to the wildfire (2).
What is the current containment status of the wildfire?
As of May 3, 2026, the Sparks Fire remains 85% contained and has burned an estimated 6000 acres.
Fire crews have made progress in establishing fire lines around the perimeter, aided by increased humidity and reduced fire activity. Despite this, the fire continues to exhibit creeping and smoldering behavior, and full suppression efforts remain ongoing, with ground crews and aerial support working to secure the area (3).
Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?
There are no evacuation orders in place for the Sparks Fire. However, authorities have issued safety advisories urging the public to avoid the area near Highway 156 at mile marker 41 due to active fire operations and potential hazards.
Residents in nearby areas should remain alert, as structures continue to be threatened and conditions can change rapidly.
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.
- 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 May 3, 2026, this fire is 85% contained.
