Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680

RENO, Nev. (June 6, 2026) — The American Red Cross of Northern Nevada has placed disaster shelter volunteers on standby as the region faces worsening wildfire conditions and critical fire weather expected Saturday.

Hot, dry weather, low humidity and increasing winds are elevating fire danger across Northern Nevada, with Reno, Carson City and Carson Valley areas facing the highest immediate risk. Stronger winds are expected Saturday across much of the region, creating more widespread critical fire weather conditions, according to the National Weather Service in Reno.

“Red Cross disaster teams are preparing now so they can move quickly if communities need shelter support,” said Bridget Posson, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Northern Nevada Chapter. “Fire conditions can change rapidly, especially with high winds and very dry vegetation. Families should review evacuation plans, gather essential supplies and follow guidance from local emergency officials.”

Red Cross Shelter Teams on Standby
The Red Cross has disaster shelter volunteers and mass care teams ready to support Northern Nevada communities if wildfire evacuations become necessary. Additional Red Cross volunteers and supplies are available across the Utah/Nevada Region and can be moved into affected areas if needed.

The Red Cross is also preparing shelter supplies, feeding support and disaster response resources. Partner agencies are ready to assist with feeding operations and additional support if local emergency officials request Red Cross assistance.

The Red Cross does not open shelters unless requested by local emergency management or government partners. If evacuations are ordered, Red Cross shelters may provide a safe place to stay, meals, water, health services, emotional support and help connecting with additional recovery resources.

Northern Nevada Faces Increased Wildfire Threats in 2026
Nevada saw a sharp increase in wildfire activity last year. In 2025, 690 wildfires burned 395,265 acres statewide, a 295% increase from the year before. Many of the state’s largest fires burned in Northern and Rural Nevada, including the Cottonwood Peak Fire in Elko County, which burned about 132,600 acres, and the Winnemucca Mountain Fire in Humboldt County. Other major fires affected Elko, Humboldt, Pershing, Washoe and Douglas counties.

More large fires could occur in Northern and Rural Nevada this year. The National Interagency Fire Center projects a higher-than-normal risk of significant fires in Northern Nevada and the Sierra Front by July and August. Low snowpack, drought, carryover grass and brush from past seasons and new spring growth could leave more fuel available once warmer, drier weather sets in.

Prepare Before Evacuations Are Ordered
The Red Cross encourages residents in areas at higher wildfire risk to prepare now:

• Know where to go if an evacuation is ordered and identify more than one route out of the area.
• Sign up for local emergency alerts and monitor updates from fire officials, law enforcement and emergency management agencies.
• Keep a go-kit ready with water, medications, important documents, phone chargers, clothing, cash, hygiene items and supplies for children, older adults, pets and people with medical needs.
• Move flammable items away from homes, including outdoor furniture, firewood, dry leaves and anything stored near decks, fences or garages.
• Keep vehicles fueled or charged and parked facing out if evacuation may be needed.
• Never drive around road closures or return to an evacuated area until officials say it is safe.

Avoid Sparks During Critical Fire Weather
During periods of high fire danger, even a small spark can start a fast-moving fire. Residents and visitors should avoid outdoor burning, properly dispose of cigarettes, secure trailer chains so they do not drag on pavement and avoid parking vehicles on dry grass. Equipment that creates sparks should be used with extreme caution and in line with local fire restrictions.

Stay Informed
The free Red Cross Emergency app provides weather alerts, shelter information and preparedness guidance. The Red Cross First Aid app includes step-by-step instructions for common injuries and emergencies. Search “American Red Cross” in app stores or visit redcross.org/apps.

More wildfire safety information is available at redcross.org/wildfire.

About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.