Bull Fire October 2 Update

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 2, 2026

Bull Fire Burning North of Verdi

WASHOE COUNTY, Nev. (October 2, 2026) — The Bull Fire is burning north of Verdi, east of Dog Valley and near the California-Nevada state line. The fire was reported shortly after 10:45 a.m. Friday near the Bull Ranch Creek and is currently estimated at approximately 2,500 acres with 0% containment.

The Bull Fire is being managed under Unified Command, consisting of Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District, U.S. Forest Service-Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, Reno Fire Department and the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office.

The fire is currently moving toward the northwest and burning into portions of the Hawk Fire burn scar. Fire activity is currently holding along the southern edge of the fire, where firefighters are working to keep the fire north of the Verdi community.

Fire behavior and terrain are presenting challenges for firefighters. More than 500 personnel are currently assigned to the fire, with more than 50 engines, hand crews and dozers supporting suppression operations. Access to portions of the fire is limited, making it difficult for engines and other ground resources to reach active fire areas. Ground crews are making their way into the fire where access allows, while helicopters are conducting bucket drops to cool the fire and slow its spread. Dozers are working from the south to establish containment lines. Aircraft will continue to support suppression operations, including night air support, as conditions allow.

Current air resources include five helicopters, one air attack, one Very Large Air Tanker (VLAT) and six Large Air Tankers (LAT).

A Type 3 Incident Management Team has been ordered and is expected to arrive Saturday afternoon to assist with incident management and continued suppression operations.

The fire is burning in an area where structures, natural gas lines, electrical infrastructure and timber are at risk. Firefighters are prioritizing the protection of life, property and critical infrastructure as suppression operations continue.

Evacuation warnings are in place for portions of the area. Residents in affected zones should monitor official evacuation information, have their go-bags ready and be prepared to leave if conditions change. Residents should use emergencywashoe.com for the most current evacuation zones and warnings.

The public is asked to avoid the Bull Fire area and keep roads clear for emergency responders. Access to the incident area is limited and unnecessary traffic can interfere with fire operations and delay emergency resources.

The cause of the Bull Fire is under investigation.

Fire conditions and evacuation zones may change rapidly. Residents should continue to monitor updates from the Unified Command agencies and Washoe County Emergency Management for the latest information.

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