Floriston

Evacuation orders in place as wildfire shuts down Interstate 80

The Floriston Fire is burning along the Truckee River Canyon northeast of Truckee, spreading eastward through timber and brush with wind-driven runs and spotting. The fire actively threatens Interstate 80, local watersheds, and nearby communities. Unified command is directing suppression efforts to slow spread along the canyon corridor.

Evacuations and Closures

• Evacuation Order: Zone NCO-E379-A in Nevada County (September 16, 2026).
• Evacuation Warning: Zones NCO-E105, NCO-E106, and NCO-E379-B in Nevada County (September 16, 2026).
• Evacuation Warning: Zones SIE-E099 and SIE-E100-B in Sierra County (September 16, 2026).
• Campgrounds in the immediate area were evacuated by wildlife personnel (September 16, 2026).
• Westbound Interstate 80 is closed at the Nevada state line with no estimated reopening time (September 16, 2026).
• Dog Valley Road in Verdi is closed to all traffic and cannot be used as a detour (September 16, 2026).

Impact

Power lines in the Floriston area were de-energized for firefighter safety, causing local power outages and prompting warnings of potential unannounced outages across Truckee. Smoke from the blaze has triggered air quality advisories across the Reno-Sparks area, bringing unhealthy air to Verdi and the North Valleys.

Conditions and Outlook

Breezy southwest winds and dry conditions will continue before winds ease and shift toward the north and east heading into the weekend, with warming temperatures and virtually no chance of rain. Firefighters are focusing on perimeter defense and structure protection along the highway corridor to prevent further eastward spotting. Dry timber fuels and canyon terrain will maintain the potential for active spread and torching.

Cause and Context

The cause of the fire is undetermined and remains under investigation as of September 16, 2026.

Official updates current through September 16, 2026.