LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — Firefighters have completed tactical burning operations on the southern perimeter of the New Pass Fire, reaching 75% containment on the 37,899-acre blaze despite an extreme heat warning taking effect Friday.
The lightning-caused wildfire, which erupted on July 26 about 30 miles northwest of Austin, Nevada, is being battled by 262 personnel, including five ground crews, seven engines, and three helicopters.
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Fire activity has significantly decreased on the south side following the successful burns. Crews are now shifting their focus toward patrolling, mopping up, and beginning suppression repair along the fire’s secure boundaries. Firefighters expect unburned interior pockets of vegetation on the southwestern and northeastern sides to continue smoldering and creeping for the next few days.
The progress comes as the National Weather Service issued an Extreme Heat Warning from Friday morning through Saturday night. High temperatures are forecast to climb well into the 90s, approaching daily records, while relative humidity levels drop to critically low levels between 4% and 7%. Northwest winds could also gust up to 20 mph, complicating containment efforts.
No road closures are currently in place, but emergency officials urge the public to avoid the active fire zone for safety reasons.
Meanwhile, daily smoke continues to settle overnight into the Highway 50 corridor and surrounding valleys. Air quality in Austin remains in the moderate range, with index values between 56 and 70.
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