Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo has issued a state of emergency in response to the Hawk Fire, which is rapidly expanding in Washoe County. The blaze is burning northwest of Reno, near Verdi and the Somersett community.
Local news reports indicate that the Hawk Fire was first identified around 11:23 a.m. on Saturday, August 22, in the vicinity of Verdi, Washoe County. The fire’s growth was swift, reaching an estimated size of 10,500 acres by Saturday evening. Washoe County officials cited strong winds, low humidity, and dry vegetation as contributing factors to the fire’s expansion.
The governor emphasized the urgency of the situation, declaring, “I have declared a state of emergency in Washoe County as we respond to the Hawk Fire, which is spreading quickly and threatening homes and structures.” He urged residents to follow evacuation orders immediately.
Lombardo highlighted that state resources are being deployed in collaboration with local authorities and first responders. This effort aims to protect lives and communities.
Location and Impact of the Hawk Fire
The Hawk Fire is located northeast of Verdi and northwest of Reno, near Peavine Mountain and the Somersett area. Truckee Meadows Fire & Rescue reported that the fire is advancing northeast towards populated regions.
Evacuation directives have been expanding as conditions evolve. The Washoe County Regional Emergency Operations Center issued new mandatory evacuations for parts of the Somersett community, particularly north of Somersett Parkway to Robb Drive, and north of West Seventh Street to North McCarran Boulevard.
An evacuation shelter has been set up at Hall 4 of the Reno-Sparks Convention Center at 4590 South Virginia Street in Reno. While the precise count of affected households remains unspecified, numerous neighborhoods in northwest Reno, Somersett, Verdi, and nearby areas are under evacuation orders or warnings.
Additional Fire Concerns from California
The regional impact of the Hawk Fire is compounded by several large wildfires burning in California. The Bug Fire, close to containment, has scorched over 93,000 acres along the California-Nevada border in Lassen and Sierra counties. These fires raise concerns about air quality if smoke moves eastward into northern Nevada.
The simultaneous fires in California and Nevada may strain firefighting resources, aircraft availability and emergency systems in the western U.S.
Continuing Developments
Firefighters are working continuously to safeguard homes, infrastructure, and vulnerable communities. Officials warn that gusty winds and arid conditions may persist, potentially supporting further fire growth.
Residents are encouraged to stay updated through official channels provided by Truckee Meadows Fire & Rescue, Washoe County Emergency Management, and Nevada emergency officials.