Tens of Thousands Evacuated as Hawk Fire Rages Near Reno, Nevada

The Hawk fire near Reno, Nevada, has led to the evacuation of about 42,000 people, with an additional 45,000 warned to prepare to leave, making it one of the largest wildfire evacuations in the U.S. this year.

The fire has burned roughly 15,000 acres so far, smaller in size compared to other blazes this year but with a significant impact on local communities, reflecting the increasing threat of wildfires.

According to the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC), firefighters have battled 50,784 wildfires this year, scorching over 7.8 million acres—168% of the 10-year average for acres burned. This exceeds last year’s burned acreage by about 50%.

The U.S. has maintained its highest fire preparedness level for 38 days since mid-July, indicating extreme strain on federal firefighting resources.

A Reuters report highlights a 20-year high in firefighter entrapments, with 12 life-threatening incidents as of August 13, surpassing the 20-year average of nine. Entrapments have contributed to six of the 13 firefighter deaths this year.

Wildfire conditions have been aggravated by hotter, drier, and windier weather. The “30-30-30” rule—temperatures above 86°F, humidity below 30%, and wind speeds over 19 mph—has been met frequently this year, fueling fire spread.

Reno’s recent weather has included daily highs averaging 92.8°F, humidity at 27%, and winds reaching 18 mph, creating ideal fire conditions.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reports 2026 as the second warmest January to July period in 132 years, with July being the hottest month on record nationwide. Nevada experienced one of its warmest Julys.

In addition, drought affects nearly half of the contiguous U.S., including much of the West, further exacerbating wildfire risk.

S&P Global analysis notes that wind speeds have also been slightly above the 20-year average from January to June.

Experts attribute these worsening fire conditions to climate change, which has extended fire season lengths and increased the frequency of extreme weather events.

"Generally we're having drier summers and higher winds," said Peter Sunderland, professor of fire protection engineering at the University of Maryland. "We are seeing more and more climate extremes."