Austin, Nevada – Video shows the New Pass Fire burning across dry, rolling hills and shrubland near Austin, Nevada, with large columns of dark gray and black smoke rising from multiple areas along the ridgelines.

The active wildfire is burning on Bureau of Land Management land approximately 30 miles northwest of Austin in Churchill and Lander counties.

The New Pass Fire started on July 26, 2026, after a lightning strike. The blaze has burned approximately 35,600 to 37,900 acres and is fueled by tall grass, brush, and pinyon-juniper.

Fire behavior remains active, with visible flames, group torching, uphill runs, and short-range spotting across the steep terrain.

More than 300 personnel have supported the response, including crews, engines, dozers, and helicopters. Tactical burning operations have also been used to reduce fuels and moderate fire behavior.

Containment is progressing, with reports showing roughly 43% to 60% containment. Smoke from the fire has been affecting Highway 50 south of the blaze, while no mandatory evacuations have been reported.

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