Little Bear Fire

The Little Bear Fire was a wildfire in New Mexico that burned 44,330 acres and 254 buildings, making it the most destructive of human structures wildfire in the state's history. The previously most destructive fire was the Cerro Grande Fire. The fire began on June 4, 2012 from a lightning strike and quickly grew out of control due to dry windy conditions. The Little Bear Fire was 90 percent contained as of June 26, 2012.

Ultimately there was no loss of human life as all but one couple in the evacuation zone said they received at least one call to evacuate the area. The New Mexico government was very proactive in notifying the general public about the fire and it mitigated damages.