The largest blaze in recorded New Mexico history has destroyed more than 430 homes across 500 square miles since early April, according to federal officials.
The fire began with prescribed burns that were set by the U.S. Forest Service, a standard practice that’s intended to clear out combustible underbrush. However, the burns spread out of control, destroying hundreds of homes across 500 square miles (1,300 square kilometers) since early April, according to federal officials.