Reno, Nev. – Fire danger will surge across western Nevada and the eastern Sierra this weekend as strong winds, bone-dry air, and isolated dry thunderstorms prompt a Red Flag Warning through 11 p.m. Sunday.
According to the National Weather Service in Reno, the warning replaces an earlier Fire Weather Watch and affects communities from Carson City to Southern Mono County, including Douglas, Lyon, Churchill, and Mineral counties. Southwest winds could gust 30 to 40 mph—up to 50 mph in exposed areas—while humidity plunges to 10–15% during peak afternoon hours.
Residents in high-risk zones like the Northern and Southern Sierra Front, as well as the Lahontan Basin, should avoid outdoor activities that could spark fires, including campfires, yard work, or shooting. A 10–15% chance of isolated dry thunderstorms adds to the danger, especially in Sierra regions where outflow winds can be erratic and intense.
Fire conditions are expected to last 8 to 12 hours each day. Emergency officials urge residents to follow local fire restrictions and stay informed via weather.gov/reno. More warnings may follow if dry lightning chances increase.
