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University update on the Hawk Fire University leadership is actively monitoring the Hawk Fire situation and will provide updates as needed.
University update on the Hawk Fire
Most current update
Last updated: Sunday August 23, 2026 at 12:55 p.m.
Following an assessment of the Hawk Fire and current smoke conditions in the vicinity of the 91·ηΓωΔρ³ͺ, the University has determined that regular campus operations will continue on Monday, Aug. 24. Classes and operations at the University's main campus, Redfield campus and Lake Tahoe campus will proceed as scheduled.
The University remains safe and is not located within an evacuation zone or a "Get Ready" (Yellow) evacuation zone. The University has established emergency response and evacuation plans in place should conditions change.
University leadership will continue to closely monitor fire activity, air quality conditions and guidance from local authorities, and will provide additional updates as needed.
Students. Students directly affected by the Hawk Fire can receive support, guidance, and resources through the Dean of Students Office. Students who are currently in an evacuation zone and need immediate assistance securing temporary housing are encouraged to contact the Dean of Students Office.
- Sunday, Aug. 23: If you need to find temporary assistance over the weekend, contact the Dean of Students, Leilani Kupo at (775) 784-4296 between noon and 6 p.m. (PST).
- Monday through Friday: Please call (775) 682β6846.
Students who may be unable to attend classes due to the fire should notify their instructors directly or contact the Dean of Students Office at deanofstudents@unr.edu for assistance.
Faculty and staff. Faculty and staff impacted by the Hawk Fire who need workplace accommodations should contact their supervisor to discuss available options and support resources.
As smoke continues to affect the Reno area, current air quality conditions can be monitored at AirNow.gov.
For the latest information regarding the Hawk Fire and any potential impacts to campus operations, please visit unr.edu and follow the University's official social media channels.
We extend our sincere gratitude to the firefighters, emergency personnel and public safety officials who are working tirelessly to protect our communities and respond to this fire. Their dedication and service are deeply appreciated.
We encourage all members of the University community to stay informed, take appropriate precautions regarding air quality, look out for one another and prioritize their safety and well-being. Our thoughts remain with those impacted by the Hawk Fire.
Previous updates
Sunday August 23, 2026 at 1:33 a.m.
Currently, the University campus is not within an evacuation zone or a "Get Ready" (Yellow) evacuation zone. While there is no need to evacuate at this time, the University has established emergency response and evacuation plans should conditions change.
For students directly affected by the Hawk Fire, the University’s Dean of Students Office is available to provide support, guidance and resources. If you are a student in the evacuation zone and need immediate assistance finding temporary housing, the Dean of Students staff can also provide assistance.
- Sunday, Aug. 23: If you need to find temporary assistance over the weekend, contact the Dean of Students, Leilani Kupo at (775) 784-4296.
- Monday through Friday: Please call (775) 682β6846 between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m.
University leadership is actively monitoring the Hawk Fire and will continue to provide updates as needed. Please visit unr.edu and follow the University's official social media channels for the latest information regarding any potential impacts to campus operations.
Saturday, August 22 at 8:51 p.m.
With the start of the Hawk Fire today, many members of our community are facing uncertainty due to evacuations, displacement, reduced air quality from smoke, and concerns for the safety of loved ones and property. Our thoughts are with everyone affected.
At this time, the University campus is not within an evacuation or “Get Ready" (Yellow) evacuation zone. University leadership is actively monitoring the situation and will provide updates as needed. Please visit unr.edu and follow the University’s official social media channels for the latest information regarding any potential impacts to University operations.
For students affected by the Hawk Fire, the University’s Dean of Students Office is available to provide support, guidance and resources. If you are a student in the evacuation zone and need immediate assistance finding temporary housing, the Dean of Students staff can also provide assistance.
- Saturday, Aug. 22, or Sunday, Aug. 23: If you need to find temporary assistance over the weekend, contact the Dean of Students, Leilani Kupo, at (775) 784-4296 between the hours of 9 a.m. and 11 p.m.
- Monday through Friday: Please call (775) 682β6846 between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m.
- Academic Support: If you will not be able to attend the first week of classes, you can email your professors or email the Dean of Students at deanofstudents@unr.edu.
Faculty and staff who have been impacted and need workplace accommodations should reach out to their supervisor to discuss available options and support.
There are also a number of campus resources that can be utilized. Counseling Services offer therapy and psychological services for students; the Downing Counseling Clinic (through the College of Education and Human Development) offers therapy services for students, faculty and staff; and the Employee Assistance Program is available for faculty and staff. The University’s LiveWell program is also available to help you prioritize your well-being and navigate campus resources that are available to help you do so. The Student Health Center has licensed physicians and nurse practitioners as well as psychiatric services that can assist with physical and mental health care needs.
With smoke entering the Reno metro area, air quality information can be found at AirNow.gov.
Our heartfelt appreciation goes to the firefighters and emergency personnel whose skill, commitment, and sacrifice are helping keep our communities safe.