Los Alamos Cerro Grande Fire
I had an opportunity to visit Arizona Avenue, my old neighborhood and one of the hardest hit. Destruction was complete on the western half of the block, with all homes on both sides leveled to the foundation. I have placed some pictures online, as well as information about contributing to the relief fund.
Update: I have posted a list of addresses totally destroyed. I have updated the list from the TV station's online list. Los Alamos County has promised to post the complete list, but as of 1:45 PM MDT Friday it was not yet online.
As you've no doubt heard by now, the entire town of Los Alamos, over 11,000 people, has been evacuated because of an out-of-control forest fire.
As a former Los Alamos resident--I moved to Albuquerque less than two years ago--I have a lot of friends and neighbors affected by the fires. I'm watching the live newscasts right now (9:30 on Wednesday night), and I'm seeing dozens of houses burning, including many that I recognize.
If you'd like to contribute to the relief fund, please visit the Web site of our local NBC affiliate at http://www.kobtv.com . The Albuquerque Journal has the best detailed coverage of the fire, as well as additional information about relief funds.
A locator registry has been started at nmgrande.com . As of about 6 PM on Thursday it only had 80 entries, but hopefully that will increase. Evacuees can register there, and you can search the database to find friends or relatives.
If you are a Los Alamos resident looking for a place to stay, I have submitted my name and number to the Red Cross (or contact me directly via e-mail). We can comfortably house five people, and infants or children and dogs are welcome.
Pictures, Relief Fund
Earlier Updates
Maps, Geography, and Fire Path
About.com Coverage
Several About.com Guides are covering the news related to the fire.
Albuquerque Guide Phyllis Gonzales has a background story, shelter information, and contacts for providing assistance. See her New Mexico Burning article.
Cats Guide Franny Syufy provides a list of Animal Shelters and advice for pet owners who must evacuate.
US Government Info Guide Robert Longley has provided links to status reports put out by the Federal government. See his Los Alamos Fire Updates article.
US News Guide Clare Saliba has additional background information and links to related sites such as Bandelier and FEMA. See her Los Alamos Fire article.
Southwest US for Visitors Guide Boise Matthews covers all of the major fires burning in New Mexico, and provides a list of resources.