Reno, Nevada – Fire danger across western Nevada and northeast California is at critical levels Friday, with a Red Flag Warning in effect until 11 p.m. as gusty winds and extremely dry air increase the risk of fast-moving wildfires.
According to the National Weather Service in Reno, southwest to west winds will reach 25 mph with gusts up to 40 mph across counties including Carson City, Douglas, Lassen, Washoe, and Churchill. Afternoon humidity will drop as low as 6%, with poor overnight recovery expected into Saturday morning.
Communities in the Sierra Front, Surprise Valley, and Humboldt Basin face elevated fire threats, especially in areas recently hit by lightning. Fire crews warn that new fires could start easily and existing ones may flare up rapidly before containment is possible.
Residents should avoid activities that might spark flames—no yard work, target shooting, or campfires. Follow local fire restrictions and stay alert for changes via weather.gov/reno and livingwithfire.info.
Conditions will remain dangerous into early next week, with shorter but still intense bursts of wind and heat expected each afternoon.
