The Hawk Fire spread across more than 10,500 acres outside Reno, Nevada, on Saturday as strong winds pushed flames toward residential areas. Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo declared a state of emergency for Washoe County as officials ordered additional evacuations. About 1,000 homes were threatened, while roughly 400 firefighters and other personnel worked from the ground and air. Officials also monitored conditions near a Washoe County correctional facility.

Low humidity, dry vegetation and gusty winds helped drive the fast-moving brush fire. Three helicopters were scheduled to operate overnight as crews focused on protecting homes and other structures. Officials urged residents in evacuation areas to leave immediately and advised those in warning zones to prepare to depart.

Fire expands rapidly outside Reno

The Hawk Fire grew quickly on Saturday, August 23, 2026, in brush and dry vegetation outside Reno in Washoe County. Officials said the blaze had covered more than 10,500 acres as winds, low humidity and dry conditions accelerated its spread. The fire was described as dynamic and wind-driven, creating a rapidly changing threat to homes and other structures in nearby residential areas.

Truckee Meadows Fire and Rescue Chief Richard Edwards said wind-driven flames can move rapidly into residential communities, making it more difficult for crews to protect people and buildings. The combination of strong gusts and dry fuels required officials to monitor the fire closely and adjust evacuation orders as conditions changed.

“The Hawk Fire is a very dynamic incident for us as it’s being driven by the winds,” Richard Edwards said.

Evacuations affect Somersett and nearby neighborhoods

Authorities ordered new evacuations for the Somersett community, including areas north of Somersett Parkway to Robb Drive. Evacuation orders also covered neighborhoods north of West 7th Street to North McCarran Boulevard. The measures were intended to move residents away from the fire’s path before conditions became more dangerous.

About 1,000 homes were placed in a “Warning – GET SET” zone. Residents in that area were told to be ready to leave if officials expanded evacuation orders. Reno Mayor Hillary Schieve urged people who had been ordered to evacuate not to delay, noting that structures had already been damaged, although officials did not immediately specify what types of structures burned.

“If you have been told to evacuate, please don’t wait!” Hillary Schieve said. “Structures have already been burned in this fire and your life is more important than a building.”

Firefighters defend homes and property

Approximately 400 firefighters and other personnel from local, state and federal agencies were assigned to the response Saturday evening. Crews worked on the ground and from the air, using available resources to slow the fire and protect homes and other property. Three helicopters were scheduled to fly overnight as the response continued.

Officials emphasized that early evacuation helps firefighters concentrate on containing the blaze rather than conducting rescues. The response remained focused on protecting lives first, followed by residential structures and other threatened assets as the fire moved through dry vegetation.

State and local officials issue safety warnings

Gov. Joe Lombardo declared a state of emergency for Washoe County as the fire continued to threaten homes and structures. The declaration reflected the scale and rapidly evolving nature of the incident. Lombardo urged residents in affected areas to remain alert and follow instructions from local authorities.

“This is an active and rapidly evolving situation, and I urge everyone in the affected areas to remain vigilant and follow the direction of local officials,” Joe Lombardo said.

Local officials continued to update evacuation areas as wind conditions changed. Residents were encouraged to leave when ordered and to avoid remaining in areas where firefighters might need to operate or rescue people.

Correctional facility remains under close watch

Officials also monitored the fire’s proximity to a Washoe County correctional facility. Sheriff Darin Balaam said his office was coordinating with fire and emergency crews and was prepared to respond if conditions changed.

The sheriff’s office identified the safety and security of incarcerated people and facility staff as its top priority. Authorities continued evaluating the fire’s movement and the potential need for further action while firefighting operations proceeded nearby.

Summary

The Hawk Fire presented a serious and fast-changing threat outside Reno, driven by strong winds, low humidity and dry vegetation. Authorities combined evacuation orders, emergency coordination and expanded firefighting operations to protect residents and property. Officials continued to urge immediate compliance with evacuation instructions as crews monitored the fire and nearby critical facilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where was the Hawk Fire burning?

The fire was burning outside Reno in Washoe County, Nevada.

How large was the fire?

Officials said the Hawk Fire had spread across more than 10,500 acres.

How many homes were threatened?

Approximately 1,000 homes were threatened, and residents in some areas were ordered to evacuate.

What caused the fire to spread quickly?

Strong, gusty winds, low humidity and dry vegetation helped fuel the rapid spread.

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