Map from Watch Duty***Last updated: August 23, 2026 @12:45pm***
HAWK FIRE
***Follow the comment section of this post in the Reno Nevada Community FB page to see where can you find some deals, offerings, and retreats as a first responders & evacuee.
Started: August 22, 2026 @ 11:23AM
Location: Northwest Reno near Somersett & Peavine
Size: 10,523 acres (or 16.4 square miles in just about 12 hours)
Containment: 0%
People without power: about 50K
# of Evacuees: roughly about 5k+
Structures threatened: about 1,000
Firefighters & personnel: about 400
Cause: Under investigation
Evacuations: Multiple GO NOW orders & evacuation warnings
Conditions: Strong winds, low humidity & extremely dry vegetation
State of emergency: Declared for Washoe County
***Forecast heat, low humidity and afternoon winds could continue to create difficult firefighting conditions and allow the fire to spread rapidly, while changes in wind direction could alter where the fire moves.
***A gentle reminder to please stay out of evacuation zones until officials have lifted the orders. Staying away helps Reno Police, firefighters, and other first responders move through the area safely and do their jobs as efficiently as possible. Your patience and cooperation can make a real difference while crews work to protect our community.
For the most current information, always verify with official emergency agencies and the Perimeter Map before sharing or acting on older information.
The Hawk Fire started Saturday, August 22, near the Peavine/Somersett area and spread rapidly in strong winds.
As of approximately 9 p.m. Saturday, the fire was estimated at 10,522 acres and 0% contained, according to the latest local fire update. Nearly 1,000 structures were reported threatened earlier in the evening.
Fire officials have repeatedly emphasized how quickly wind driven fire can move toward residential areas.
As of approximately 9 p.m. Saturday, the fire was estimated at 10,522 acres and 0% contained, according to the latest local fire update. Nearly 1,000 structures were reported threatened earlier in the evening.
Fire officials have repeatedly emphasized how quickly wind driven fire can move toward residential areas.
Follow these accounts for the fastest updates:
*American Red Cross of Nevada (Facebook) - To find an open Red Cross shelter anytime, visit redcross.org/Shelters or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
Fire & Perimeter Maps to Bookmark
*Emergency Washoe: Washoe County emergency information (Check your address)
*Perimeter Map: Hawk Fire Evacuation Zones and Incident Map (Check your address)
*Watch Duty: Watch Duty Wildfire Information (website & app)
Note: Evacuation zones can change quickly. Check the map frequently rather than relying on a screenshot or information shared on social media. A fire perimeter map and an evacuation map are not the same thing. For deciding whether you need to evacuate, use Perimeter Map & Emergency Washoe.
Another helpful resource:
The Reno Nevada Community Facebook Group is an active local group where residents share requests for help, offers of assistance, information about evacuations, housing, pets, supplies, road conditions, and other updates during the Hawk Fire. It can be a useful way to see what people in the community are experiencing and where help may be needed. Keep in mind that Facebook posts are not official emergency information, so always verify evacuation orders and other critical information with authorities.
SOURCE: City of Reno Instagram
What do I do right now?
Emergency Cheatsheet
-Check your evacuation zone: Perimeter Map
RED Evacuation Zone: Leave Now
YELLOW Evacuation Warning: Be Prepared to Leave
YELLOW Evacuation Warning: Be Prepared to Leave
-Check official emergency updates: Emergency Washoe
-Check road closures: Nevada 511
-Top Social Media Updates: City of Reno, Reno Fire Department, Reno Police
-Need shelter?: Reno-Sparks Convention Center, Hall 4 (4590 S. Virginia St., Reno NV 89502)
-Small animals: Washoe County Regional Animal Services
-Large animals: Ironwood Event Center
-Power outage: NV Energy
-Emergency: 911
Current Evacuations & Evacuation Map
GO NOW evacuation orders have been issued in areas north and northwest of Somersett, north of Verdi, and portions of Golden Valley, Lemmon Valley, Stead and Cold Springs. New evacuation warnings have also been issued in portions of Lemmon Valley and Silver Knolls.
Road Closures
For current road conditions:
Road conditions are changing as the fire moves.
Current major closures:
U.S. 395 is closed in both directions between Parr Boulevard and Red Rock Road.
North Virginia Street is also closed between Red Rock Road and White Lake Parkway.
Nevada State Police and other agencies are assisting with traffic control.
Do not drive toward evacuation areas to look at the fire. Emergency crews need those roads clear.
If You Need to Evacuate
If you're in a GO NOW zone, don't wait for another update.
GRAB:
Friends & Family
Pets
First Aid/Medications
Important documents
Phones/chargers
Wallet/Cash
Flashlight
Essential clothing
Pet supplies
Leave early if you are in a warning area and have mobility issues, young children, elderly family members, livestock or pets that require extra time to evacuate.
Evacuation Centers & Shelters
CURRENT EVACUATION CENTER
Reno-Sparks Convention Center - Hall 4
4590 S. Virginia St., Reno NV 89502
Enter through Door 20F on the Kietzke side.
This location was opened after the previous evacuation center reached capacity.
FULL
Evelyn Mount Northeast Community Center
1301 Valley Road, Reno
This evacuation site is currently FULL. Do not send evacuees there unless officials announce that capacity has reopened.
Hotels Offering Emergency Rates
Several Reno area hotels have announced discounted rates for people displaced by the Hawk Fire, including:
(All three hotels are connected and owned by Ceasar's Entertainment Co.)
Silver Legacy Website
Circus Circus Website
El Dorado Website
"If you are being evacuated due to the Hawk Fire in Northern Nevada, we're offering a special $59 rate with NO resort fee at Silver Legacy, Eldorado and Circus Circus Reno.
📞 Call 1-800-223-7277 or book online with code SCLOC26.
Stay safe, Reno. We've got you.❤️"
-Description from Instagram
HAWK FIRE EVACUATION RATE
"To our Northern Nevada community: If you or someone you know has been impacted by the Hawk Fire, we want to help provide a safe place to rest.
PLEASE NOTE: We are completely sold out tonight (Saturday), but we are sharing this now so you can secure a room for tomorrow if needed.
We are offering a $49/night rate with NO resort fees for stays starting tomorrow, Sunday, August 23 through Tuesday, August 25.
How to Book:
- Use promo code EVAC26 online or over the phone.
- Must present a valid ID showing an address from the impacted area at check-in.
Please share this post to help reach those who may need it. Stay safe out there, Northern Nevada."
-Description from Instagram
Neaby Areas to Check for Loadging
South Reno
Carson City
Virginia City
Lake Tahoe
Gardnerville
Photo Source
Pets & Livestock
Please take your pets with you when you evacuate.Do not leave dogs, cats, horses, livestock or other animals behind if you can safely evacuate them.
Small Animals
Washoe County Regional Animal Services has previously accepted small animals during area fire evacuations, but capacity and intake instructions can change during an active emergency.Washoe County Regional Animal Services
2825 Longley Lane, Reno
775-353-8900
Call before transporting your animal unless you are in immediate danger and must leave.
Large Animals and Livestock
Ironwood Event Center
5600 Whiskey Springs Road, Reno, NV 89510
Turn right into the second driveway and check in at the main office. Drive slowly and carefully.
Do not send livestock there unless officials announce that it has reopened for emergency animal evacuation.
This is particularly important for horse owners, ranchers and people with livestock in evacuation zones.
If You Need Help Evacuating An Animal
Have these ready if possible:
Leash or carrier
Food and water
Medications
Vaccination records
Identification/microchip information
A recent photo of your pet
Crate or kennel
Horse trailer or livestock transportation
Several days of food
Important veterinary information
Never refuse to evacuate because you are worried about your pets. Ask emergency personnel or animal services for assistance.
Food & Basic Assistance
(775) 331-3663
Find food pantries, emergency food distributions and free groceries.
211
Find nearby food assistance, free meals, shelter and other emergency resources.
(775) 684-7200
If you lost food because of the wildfire or a related power outage, you may qualify for replacement SNAP benefits. Report food loss within 10 days.
(775) 322-7073
Food and emergency assistance for people affected by disasters.
Tip: Food pantry hours and availability can change during an active fire. Call ahead or use the Food Bank of Northern Nevada's current food assistance listings before traveling to a location.
Smoke & Air Quality
Smoke can travel far beyond the actual fire perimeter.
Check current air quality before exercising, hiking, spending extended time outdoors or allowing children and pets to spend unnecessary time outside.
If smoke is heavy, consider keeping windows and doors closed and using an appropriately sized air purifier or HVAC filtration system.
Power Outages
Areas affected have included Cold Springs, Stead and University Ridge, with the number of customers without power changing throughout the evening.
NV Energy has also used emergency de-energization because of the fire threat.
A Message From NV Energy Via Instagram
"Due to impacts of the Hawk Fire, emergency de-energizations in northwest Reno and the North Valleys have been taken to protect residents and critical infrastructure as the fire approached utility equipment.
The emergency de-energizations are currently affecting up to approximately 60,000 customers. While disruptive, the measure is a critical component of NV Energy's wildfire mitigation strategy and is intended to reduce public safety risks during active wildfire events. Our teams are closely monitoring fire activity to determine when it is safe to restore power.
At this time, there is no estimated restoration time for affected customers. Crews are actively evaluating re-energization options and will restore power as soon as it is safe to do so.
NV Energy is proud to have one of the top power reliability rankings in the nation. However, safety is our number one priority. When an active wildfire meets an energized line, it can cause secondary ignitions that worsen the ongoing fire. This emergency de-energization is one way we protect our customers and communities.
We recognize the hardship outages create and appreciate our customers’ patience and understanding as we prioritize safety."
The emergency de-energizations are currently affecting up to approximately 60,000 customers. While disruptive, the measure is a critical component of NV Energy's wildfire mitigation strategy and is intended to reduce public safety risks during active wildfire events. Our teams are closely monitoring fire activity to determine when it is safe to restore power.
At this time, there is no estimated restoration time for affected customers. Crews are actively evaluating re-energization options and will restore power as soon as it is safe to do so.
NV Energy is proud to have one of the top power reliability rankings in the nation. However, safety is our number one priority. When an active wildfire meets an energized line, it can cause secondary ignitions that worsen the ongoing fire. This emergency de-energization is one way we protect our customers and communities.
We recognize the hardship outages create and appreciate our customers’ patience and understanding as we prioritize safety."
Check NV Energy's Current Outage Map
If you lose power:
Keep refrigerators and freezers closed as much as possible.
Unplug sensitive electronics.
Have flashlights available.
Keep phones charged.
Never use a generator indoors or in an attached garage.
Check on neighbors who may need assistance.
Returning Home After an Evacuation
Do not return home until officials have lifted the evacuation order for your specific area. Check Emergency Washoe, the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office, and the Perimeter Map for official updates, and check Nevada 511/NDOT for road conditions before heading home. Even after an area reopens, roads may remain closed and hazards such as smoke, debris, damaged infrastructure, downed power lines, and emergency crews may still be present.
Helpful Phone Numbers
911
Emergencies only
211 (9am-9pm) | Website
Help After an Evacuation/Food, Housing & Financial Assistance
Washoe County Regional Animal Services
(775) 322-3647
Animal emergencies and evacuation assistance.
American Red Cross
1 (800) 733-2767
Shelter and disaster assistance.
Nevada Department of Transportation
(775) 888-7000
Road information and assistance.
NV Energy
(775) 834-4444
Power outages and emergencies.
Nevada Humane Society
(775) 856-2000
SPCA of Northern Nevada
(775) 324-7773
Other Regional Fires
Bug Fire
The Bug Fire remains a large wildfire north of Reno, but conditions have improved significantly compared with earlier in August.
As of August 22, the Bug Fire was approximately 93,733 acres and 94% contained.
Stallion Fire
The Stallion Fire was approximately 40,691 acres and 98% contained as of August 22.
These fires are still being monitored, but the Hawk Fire is the immediate wildfire emergency affecting Reno-area residents tonight.
Donating Items
If you'd like to help families displaced by the Hawk Fire, check with the American Red Cross, Nevada 211, or local relief organizations before dropping off physical donations. Needs can change quickly during an active wildfire, and some organizations can become overwhelmed by an influx of donated items, especially when they receive more supplies than they can store or distribute. Organizations may have specific requests for clothing, food, hygiene products, pet supplies or other essentials, so it's best to confirm what is currently needed before donating. Monetary donations are often the most flexible way to help, allowing organizations and responders to purchase exactly what is needed.
In keeping with our commitment to service and community, the Junior League of Reno will host a public donation drive at our league office every Tuesday and Thursday from 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. through September 4.
Junior League of Reno
190 W. Huffaker Lane, Suite 407
Reno, NV 89511
The drive will support Project Bear Hugs, an initiative providing comfort and essential items to children and families in our community. We encourage those who are able to donate, volunteer, or offer other assistance to join us in supporting our neighbors."
UPDATES
8/23/26: CURRENT ROAD CLOSURES
8/23/26 @ 12:30pm: All WCSD Schools (Except Gerlach) Canceled for August 24, 2026
This is an important message from WCSD:
As a result of the Hawk Fire and at the request of public safety officials, all classes, events, and activities at all WCSD schools – except Gerlach K-12 School – will be canceled on Monday, August 24. The decision to close schools is due to evacuations, impacts on regional public safety resources, and to help keep roads clear for emergency vehicles. Once again, upon the recommendation of public safety officials, all schools with the exception of Gerlach K-12 School are canceled on Monday, August 24.
Governor Lombardo has declared a state of emergency in Washoe County due to the fast-moving fire, unpredictable weather, power outages, and the closure of major roads in our area. Our district continues to provide support wherever possible to public safety agencies as widespread evacuations and other lifesaving efforts have been carried out.
We understand that so many people in our WCSD family—students, families, and staff —are impacted. Over the next few days, we will continue to update our entire district family with information as it becomes available. We are grateful to our firefighters and first responders as they continue to battle this fire, and we thank our district personnel who are assisting with this effort.
For information on shelters and other resources, please visit www.emergencywashoe.com"
-Description from WCSD Facebook
PHOTO SOURCE
I’m incredibly grateful to everyone on the front lines, our firefighters & first responders, those lending a helping hand, the nonprofits, hotels, good Samaritans, news outlets, local businesses, and everyone else working to support our community through the fires.
To those who have been severly affected by the fires, my heart is with you all.
I’ll continue to update this guide as new information becomes available. If there’s something you think would be helpful for someone affected by the Hawk Fire, please don’t hesitate to reach out and share the information. Every bit helps.
Stay safe, Reno. <3
***Information subject to change. Wildfire conditions, evacuation zones, road closures and shelter capacity can change rapidly.***
