Lightning-caused fires keep forest busy

SILVER CITY, N.M. (AP) - Firefighters in southwestern New Mexico are busy as lightning storms continue to pass over the Gila National Forest.

Officials say the area has had 46 lightning-sparked fires since early July.

Crews are currently focusing on a fire on the east side of the Aldo Leopold Wilderness near Apache Creek. It was contained Saturday but they're watching for hot spots.

Since it burned in wilderness, firefighting equipment had to be packed in.

Another fire was reported Sunday in rugged territory on the east side of the Mimbres Mountains. The smoke has prompted many phone calls to rangers.

District Ranger Larry Cosper says this fire season has left people on edge and more concerned than usual.

Officials say another concern is that the area remains dry, having received below-average rainfall so far this monsoon season.