Incident Update: McConnell Fire
August 30, 2026
| Acres: 32,392 | Start Date: August 25, 2026 |
| Containment: 13% | Cause: lightning |
| Total Personnel: 246 | Fuels: brush, grass, and timber |
| Total Resources: 8 crews | 21 engines | 5 dozers | Location: 3 miles northwest of Orovada |
Summary: The McConnell Fire saw some growth on Saturday with active areas on the northeast and southeast flanks of the fire. Smoke also picked up on the south flank. Fire crews were able to staff the active areas, utilizing helicopter bucket drops and completed hand and dozer line in some areas to continue containment of the fire perimeter.
Crews are largely focused on containment lines and building contingency lines along the northern and eastern sides of the fire area as well as closely monitoring the containment lines already constructed on the western edge.
Fire behavior included uphill runs yesterday. Uphill fire spread can be particularly rapid because heat and flames are directed toward unburned vegetation, preheating fuels ahead of the fire. When winds align with an uphill slope, this effect can intensify fire behavior and contribute to rapid fire growth and increased spotting.
Fire Weather: Temperatures are forecast to be in the upper 70s today, with humidity decreasing into the teens. Higher temperatures and lower humidity are expected Monday, which could contribute to continued active fire behavior. The fuels in the area are extremely dry and the fire danger remains high in the surrounding areas.
Evacuations and Closures: Level 1 and Level 2 evacuation zones have been established in and around areas of Orovada and Paradise Valley. Currently, areas of Orovada east of U.S. Highway 95 are under Level 2 “GET SET” evacuation status. The Hinkey Summit area is also under Level 2 status for cabins, structures and the campground.
The most current evacuation information can be found at perimetermap.com/humboldt. Authorities are asking the public to remain vigilant and be safe as fire suppression and restoration efforts continue.
All National Forest lands, roads, and trails east of Hinkey Summit Road #50084 within the Santa Rosa Ranger District of the Humboldt Toiyabe National Forest are closed to the public.
Fire restrictions remain in place for this region. For details, visit https://www.nevadafireinfo.org.
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