Hawk Fire Near Reno Forces 42,000 Evacuations as Blaze Tops 15,000 Acres

Reno, Nevada, August 24, 2026. The Hawk Fire has burned more than 15,000 acres northwest of Reno and remains at zero percent containment, prompting mandatory evacuation orders for about 42,000 people and readiness warnings for another 45,000.

The fire started on August 22 and is human-caused, according to preliminary investigation. By Monday it had scorched 15,051 acres of tall grass, brush and timber. More than 720 personnel, 14 crews, 95 engines, 10 helicopters and 9 dozers were assigned to the incident.

Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo declared a state of emergency in Washoe County and activated the National Guard to assist firefighting and law enforcement. Officials reported six injuries among civilians and first responders. Some residences have been destroyed, though unsafe conditions have delayed a full damage assessment.

Firefighters made progress overnight holding the fire east of Dog Valley Road and south of U.S. Highway 395 despite extreme fire behavior. Critically dry fuels, elevated temperatures and seasonal southwest winds continue to drive the blaze. Area, road and trail closures remain in effect, including sections of Highway 395.

About 14,000 homes lie within the evacuation zone. Authorities have warned that the fire is expected to burn for at least two more days and that no timeline exists for residents to return. Evacuation updates are posted through the regional emergency operations center and perimeter maps.

The Hawk Fire is one of several active blazes in the western United States this week. Heat and dry conditions have also fueled fires in California's wine country and central Oregon, forcing additional evacuations. The combination of late-summer fuels and wind has produced rapid rates of spread in multiple jurisdictions.

Local officials emphasize that residents should check current road and evacuation information before entering affected areas. The Regional Emergency Operations Center continues to coordinate resources and public messaging as containment efforts continue.