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NM Wildfires Slow As Crews Eye Flood Controls

Crews working to tame two wildfires in New Mexico hope to begin flood prevention measures after recent favorable weather helped slow the blazes' growth.

Officials said Thursday that the Jaroso Fire in the steep canyons of the Pecos Wilderness in the Santa Fe National Forest has increased the potential for flash flooding, mud and debris flows as monsoon season looms. Heavy rains could impact several communities, homes, roads, and other infrastructures adjacent to and downstream from the burned area.

That blaze is not contained and is burning in rugged territory that has prevented crews from directly attacking the flames.

Meanwhile, officials say the 216-square-mile Silver Fire in southern New Mexico's Gila National Forest was 78 percent contained as of late Thursday. That blaze's expansion was halted by rain.

Copyright 2013 The Associated Press.