Wildfire activity across the country is already above average this year, with dry, windy conditions helping fires spread faster than usual. Albuquerque-based 10 Tanker is helping fight those fires with its fleet of four DC-10 aircraft, each capable of carrying 9,400 gallons of fire retardant.
Conditions Could Worsen
Company leaders say a weak winter, below-average snowpack and spring growth that quickly dried out have all contributed to more dangerous fire conditions. They say national wildfire activity is currently running above the 10-year average. According to the New Mexico Fire Dashboard, there are currently 24 fires burning across the state.
Officials say many wildfires are human-caused and are urging people to be especially careful outdoors, particularly ahead of the Fourth of July weekend. They warn that abandoned campfires, dragging trailer chains and other preventable mistakes can quickly spark dangerous fires.
Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.
