08/11/2026
BUG FIRE UPDATE | AUGUST 10, 2026
The Bug Fire remains active north of Reno, between Cold Springs and the California state line near Red Rock Road. Firefighters continue aggressive suppression efforts as hot, dry and windy conditions contribute to rapid fire spread.
Fire Information
• Estimated size: 17,000 acres
• Containment: 4%
• Cause: Human
• Start: August 8, 2026, approximately 3:30 p.m. PDT
• Resources assigned: Approximately 300
• Location: North of Reno, between Cold Springs and the California state line, near Red Rock Road
• Bug Fire Information Line: 775-800-7244
• For livestock-related questions, call 311
Current Situation
The incident is currently being managed under Unified Command between the US Wildland Fire Service and Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District, with more than 12 mutual aid partners assisting.
The Bug Fire remains active, with wind-driven runs, flanking and short-range spotting. Fire activity continued into the evening, including significant 3–6 mile runs. Ground and aviation resources are being used to slow fire spread and support suppression efforts.
Firefighters will prioritize community and firefighter safety while aggressively engaging the fire where conditions allow. A complex incident management team has been ordered.
Weather and Fire Behavior
Fire behavior remains active, with wind-driven runs, flanking and short-range spotting. Crowning is occurring in pinyon-juniper fuels, with sustained runs through grass and brush. Near-critical fire weather, critically dry fuels and strong afternoon winds are contributing to rapid fire spread and high resistance to control.
Hot, dry and unstable conditions remain in place, with poor nighttime humidity recovery. W/SW winds and low daytime relative humidity are expected to support critical fire weather conditions each afternoon. West winds of 10–22 mph, with gusts up to 35 mph, are forecast during the afternoon.
Energy Release Components are above the 97th percentile, indicating extremely dry fuels and the potential for continued active fire behavior. Wind-driven runs are possible where winds and terrain align, including both up and down drainages. Rapid fire growth toward the east and Red Rock Road remains a concern.
Evacuations and Closures
Approximately 5,500 people are currently evacuated. Communities near the fire remain threatened by potential fire growth.
With afternoon wind gusts forecast up to 35 mph and the potential for continued rapid fire spread, fire managers are continually evaluating conditions to determine when evacuated areas can be safely repopulated. Community and firefighter safety remain the priority, and evacuation status may change as fire behavior and conditions evolve.
The Evelyn Mount Community Center, 1013 Valley Road in Reno, is the official evacuation center.
Washoe County Regional Animal Services is accepting small animals at its shelter at 2825 Longley Lane. The large-animal shelter at the Reno-Sparks Livestock Events Center currently has more than 150 animals. Due to limited space and resources, residents who are able to safely relocate animals to a friend or family member are encouraged to do so.
For livestock-related questions, call 311.
Current evacuation information:
https://perimetermap.com/washoe
Smoke
If you or a loved one is sensitive to smoke, stay indoors when possible until air quality improves and continue monitoring local air-quality conditions.