A grass fire that began on April 3, 2011, continues to burn through Ruidosos Downs, across HWY 70 towards Forest Service Road, according to Dan Ware of the New Mexico Fire Information Center.
Driven by strong winds, the fire, referred to as the White Fire, began in steep, rough, rocky terrain near Gavalin Canyon. The fire grew rapidly during the day due to extremely gusty winds along with sudden wind shifts.
The Ruidoso Downs Racetrack area has been evacuated, but it is not known how many people and horses had to be evacuated. The Ruidoso Downs Racetrack hosts the All-American Futurity.
At present, at least four homes and several barns have been burned. The cause of the fire is not known.