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Aerial view of the Becky Peak Fire on July 9, 2022
Photo: Unknown authorUnknown author | Public domain | Wikimedia Commons

Hawk Fire Forces 14,000 Reno-Area Evacuations, Nevada Guard Activated

The fast-growing Hawk Fire near Reno, Nevada forced nearly 14,000 homes to evacuate early Sunday, August 23, 2026, and prompted a state emergency with the Nevada National Guard mobilized.[1]

By early Sunday the blaze had grown to more than 10,500 acres and remained 0% contained.[1] Evacuation orders covered nearly 14,000 homes, and a "GO NOW" zone reached to the edge of the University of Nevada, Reno campus.[1] Washoe County opened the Reno-Sparks Convention Center for evacuees and set separate locations for small and large animals.[1]

The fire began Saturday, August 22, 2026, in the Sierra foothills and spread toward central Reno under strong winds, low humidity and dry fuels.[1] Gov. Joe Lombardo declared a state of emergency for Washoe County and mobilized the Nevada National Guard, which included two firefighting helicopters and about 60 troops to support response efforts.[1]

  1. CBS News
Wildfires and Disasters Nevada
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📌 Key Facts

  • By early Sunday, August 23, 2026, the Hawk Fire had grown to more than 10,500 acres with 0% containment.
  • Evacuation orders covered nearly 14,000 homes, with a "GO NOW" zone reaching the edge of the University of Nevada, Reno campus.
  • Gov. Joe Lombardo declared a state of emergency in Washoe County and mobilized the Nevada National Guard, including two firefighting helicopters and about 60 troops.
  • The fire started Saturday, August 22, 2026, in the Sierra foothills and spread toward central Reno under strong winds, low humidity and dry fuels.
  • Washoe County opened the Reno-Sparks Convention Center for evacuees and designated separate locations for evacuated small and large animals.

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