Hawk Fire 27% contained, 32 homes lost, evacuations continue in Nevada

The Hawk Fire, which ignited near Somersett on Saturday, is now 27% contained after burning more than 15,000 acres. Officials reported that 32 homes have been destroyed and six additional structures damaged, primarily in the North Valleys area, and that damage assessments are ongoing.

More than 23,000 residents remain under mandatory evacuation orders, with an additional 40,000 under evacuation warnings across the North Valleys, Somersett and northwest Reno. Evacuation zones have been adjusted in some areas; the Somersett community was downgraded from a red “Evacuate Now” to a yellow “Get Set To Evacuate” status, and road closures there have been lifted, though officials warned conditions could change quickly.

Power outages affect roughly 10,000 customers after over 100 power poles were damaged. NV Energy has restored service in the Somersett area but continues emergency de-energization in zones still under evacuation orders. Gas service was also shut off for about 250 customers as a safety precaution.

Firefighting resources include 720 personnel, 95 engines, 10 helicopters, nine dozers and international crews from Australia and New Zealand. Heavy machinery, handlines and aerial retardant are being used to protect structures, critical infrastructure and a natural gas line within the fire perimeter. Winds are expected to increase in the afternoon, potentially intensifying fire behavior.

Governor Joe Lombardo declared a state of emergency and mobilized the Nevada National Guard, deploying CH-47 Chinook and UH-60 Black Hawk crews for aerial suppression and sending 60 Guard personnel to assist local law enforcement.

Washoe County Sheriff Darin Balaam thanked the community for its patience and urged residents to avoid flying drones, which can interfere with firefighting aircraft. The sheriff’s office emphasized that evacuation orders remain dynamic and residents should monitor the Perimeter Map for the latest updates.

A press briefing is scheduled for 2 p.m. Monday, followed by a community meeting at the California Building in Idlewild Park at 7 p.m., both of which will be livestreamed.

"Please be patient and know that there are so many people working incredibly hard to get you home as soon as it’s safe," the Hawk Fire Incident Command said in an online update.

The fire has not yet reached Sierra County, California, but officials there are monitoring the situation.