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NewsWPLG Local 10August 23, 2026Miami-Dade

Governor Lombardo declares state of emergency as Hawk Fire forces mass evacuations in Reno

Governor Joe Lombardo has declared a state of emergency in Washoe County and mobilized the Nevada National Guard to assist with firefighting and security efforts as the Hawk Fire forces approximately 87,000 residents to evacuate. The fire, which began Saturday, has consumed over 23 square miles, destroyed homes, and resulted in at least six injuries.

wildfireemergency managementevacuationpublic safetynatural disaster
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Why It Matters

The emergency declaration authorizes state resources, including 60 National Guard troops and aerial support, to assist 800 fire personnel in protecting residents and property across the Reno area.

Key Facts

  • Governor Joe Lombardo declared a state of emergency for Washoe County.
  • The Nevada National Guard is deploying 60 troops and two helicopter crews to assist with firefighting and security.
  • Approximately 42,000 residents are under mandatory 'GO NOW' evacuation orders.
  • An additional 45,000 residents are in an evacuation warning zone.
  • The Hawk Fire has grown to over 23 square miles (60 sq. km.) since starting Saturday.
  • At least six people, including three first responders and three civilians, have been injured.
  • Nearly 10,000 customers in Washoe County were without power as of Sunday.
  • Portions of U.S. Route 395 are closed due to the fire.
  • The fire is officially classified as 'human-caused' by authorities.
  • 800 fire personnel are currently engaged in suppression efforts.

Who's Mentioned

other280,000“Population of Reno”other60“Number of National Guard troops mobilized”otherHawk Fire“The wildfire event”organizationNevada National Guard“Mobilized to assist with aerial firefighting and neighborhood security”locationReno“City impacted by the wildfire”other45,000“Number of residents in evacuation warning zone”personDarin Balaam“Washoe County Sheriff”other90,000“Total number of people urged to evacuate”locationU.S. Route 395“Major highway partially closed due to fire”other42,000“Number of residents under mandatory 'GO NOW' evacuation order”personJoe Lombardo“Governor of Nevada who declared the state of emergency”other800“Number of fire personnel responding”locationWashoe County“Primary area affected by the fire and emergency declaration”