New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham declared on May 20 that the state is facing drought and severe fire conditions, directing agencies to coordinate efforts to protect communities and water resources.
The declaration comes as New Mexico records its lowest snowpack and highest spring temperatures, resulting in low runoff and below-average river flows. These factors have led to a rise in wildfire activity, with twice as many wildfires reported in the first four months of 2026 compared to the same period last year.
“New Mexico is experiencing unprecedented drought and fire danger, and we must act decisively to safeguard our communities and water supplies,” said Governor Lujan Grisham. “This executive order strengthens our statewide response and connects New Mexicans to the information and support they need.”
State Forester Laura McCarthy urged residents to take precautions: “Everyone should take drought conditions seriously and refrain from campfires and open burning. You can protect your home and loved ones by creating defensible space, removing dead leaves and grass and following state fire restrictions. The state Forestry Division is responding to wildfires daily and providing timely and accurate information about wildfires as they occur.”
The executive order encourages local governments across New Mexico to ban fireworks, adopt water conservation measures, provide public information on drought status, prepare for emergencies, conserve existing water supplies, ensure technical assistance for community needs, improve coordination among agencies at all levels of government, prioritize forest health projects that reduce wildfire risk near communities or critical infrastructure like watersheds or power lines.
To help residents stay informed about evolving conditions, a new online portal has been launched at Drought.nm.gov. “Drought touches every corner of New Mexico, from our farms and forests to our cities and tribal communities,” said Dr. Dave DuBois, state climatologist. “This website gives New Mexicans a clear, reliable place to find the information they need to understand what’s happening and plan accordingly.”
The governor’s office facilitates public engagement through appointment applications while handling requests for assistance or events as part of its operations from Room 400 at the State Capitol in Santa Fe; it also promotes public service careers supporting administrative goals such as early childhood education initiatives or food insecurity efforts according to the official website.
