Under a dramatic plume of smoke, firefighters successfully contained a rapidly advancing wildfire that threatened to engulf nearby homes, showcasing interagency cooperation and teamwork. Thanks to their swift response and relentless efforts, the blaze was halted right next to residential areas, averting what could have been a devastating disaster.
According to officials with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), the Bourbon Fire, whose cause is yet unknown, was reported at approximately 6:55 p.m. on Aug.12. The flames were out and mop-up began several hours later and it was official deemed under control by 5:30 p.m. the following day.
The blaze, which occurred near Grass Valley Road and Forgnone Road, ultimately scorched 141 acres of brush and grassland and threatened homes. The fire was characterized by extreme behavior, with high rates of spread driven by strong winds under Red Flag conditions, according to BLM officials.
Firefighting efforts involved resources from the Winnemucca Rural Fire District, Winnemucca BLM, Golconda Fire District (which includes Valmy Fire), Winnemucca City Fire Department, as well as the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Crews worked diligently through the night, with federal resources remaining on the scene until 8 p.m. Tuesday. Humboldt General Hospital Ambulance and Rescue was also in the area to provide trailers for firefighters or residents who might have needed water or oxygen, and walked the neighborhood to check on residents’ welfare.
“Thanks to the swift response and collaboration from the multiple fire districts, the fire was contained and no homes were lost,” said Humboldt General Hospital in a social media post. “Your dedication and teamwork kept our community safe, and we are incredibly grateful for your service!”
During the fire, approximately 50 structures were at risk, and several neighborhoods were evacuated. A temporary evacuation shelter was established for affected residents, but by Monday night, all evacuees were allowed to return to their homes.
“This came very, very close to houses in the area,” said WRFD Chief Torrey Sheen. “All of the fire units from our area worked hard to keep this fire from getting into any of the houses that were in the path of the flames.”
While power was lost to some areas following damage to power lines, it was restored by NV Energy crews after a few hours. No injuries were reported, and there are currently no ongoing road closures related to the fire. The cause of the blaze remains under investigation.
For the latest updates on fire conditions, residents are advised to check Nevada Fire Info.