January 1, Wildfires Blaze Across 5 States

The National Interagency Fire Center says more than 33 fires are blazing across five states, burning over 1 million acres.

Large fires are burning in California, Arizona, Alaska, New Mexico, and Texas. Mandatory evacuations have been ordered in California, Arizona, and New Mexico.

The Associated Press reported that about 2,500 homes were evacuated due to two active wildfires on the outskirts of Flagstaff, Arizona.

“Additionally, dry conditions and gusty winds are expected to produce another day of elevated to critical fire weather conditions across portions of the Southwest into the Central/Southern Rockies and High Plains,” the National Weather Service said.

“Red Flag Warnings are in effect across portions of southwestern Colorado and northern New Mexico, where conditions are expected to be favorable for the easy ignition and rapid spread of fires on Tuesday.”