Thursday, July 14, 2016, 11:00 AM

The fire began yesterday at approximately 3:30 PM. The cause of the fire is unknown and under investigation.

As of this morning, an estimated 290 acres of private land have reportedly burned. Resources, including air tankers, are actively engaged in fire suppression activities.

At present, unconfirmed reports state that approximately 15 structures have burned, and that 30 additional structures remain threatened. Exploding propane tanks have kept firefighters from confirming the total number of structures lost. Power lines are also down in the area.

The Pecos Zone Type III team has been ordered to assume command of the incident. Members of the Pecos Zone Type III Team are already on-site, and more continue to arrive. The official transfer of command will take place at an unknown time either late this evening or early tomorrow morning.

There is a road closure in place at the junction of State Road 6943 and Sunspot Rd. The region to the south of this location is closed off.

Otero County emergency officials continue to encourage evacuations. The evacuation center is the Cloudcroft High School. The Red Cross is managing the evacuation center.