Puerto Morelos Wildfire Burns 6 Hectares, 40% Contained

Puerto Morelos, Quintana Roo — A new forest fire was confirmed this Thursday by Mexico’s National Forestry Commission (Conafor) in the municipality of Puerto Morelos, bringing the total number of wildfires in Quintana Roo this season to 16. The blaze is located in an area known as La Carretera / La Leona and has so far consumed six hectares of vegetation.

Firefighting Efforts Underway

According to official reports, the fire is currently 40% contained, while efforts to fully extinguish it are just beginning, keeping authorities on high alert. Crews from Conafor and the State Fire Management Center are working to secure the perimeter and prevent the flames from spreading to more vulnerable areas.

The State Fire Management Center noted that the other 15 wildfires recorded this 2025 season have already been brought under control. Among the most significant were:

• El Porvenir in Isla Mujeres
• La Selva in Puerto Morelos
• Santa Melva in Lázaro Cárdenas
• El Higo in Playa del Carmen
• La Reyna in Isla Mujeres
• Chula Vista in Othón P. Blanco

Damage Assessment and Comparisons

To date, the total area affected this season stands at 1,419 hectares—a significant decrease compared to the more than 50,000 hectares burned during the 2024 season, which saw 56 wildfires across the state.

Authorities Urge Public Caution

Officials reiterated calls for the public to avoid activities that could trigger fires, such as lighting campfires in forested areas or burning trash. They also urged residents to immediately report any signs of fire to emergency services.

What to Do If You Spot a Wildfire

1. Do not approach. Move away to avoid smoke inhalation or becoming trapped.
2. Call immediately. Dial 800-INCENDIO (46236346) or 911 to report it.
3. Provide exact location. Mention visible landmarks like roads, towers, rivers, or property names.
4. Do not attempt to extinguish it yourself. Especially if the fire is large or spreading rapidly.
5. Alert others. Warn nearby individuals and follow instructions from Civil Protection.
6. In dense smoke conditions. Cover your nose and mouth with a damp cloth and seek safe shelter.

The situation remains under close monitoring as firefighting teams continue their efforts to fully contain the blaze.