Author: Kristie Wells
NV Energy says an emergency de-energization may be necessary as the Hawk Fire continues to threaten communities and electrical infrastructure across the region.
After an unexpected six-hour power outage on Saturday, Incline Village residents are being warned that another prolonged outage could occur Sunday, August 23rd.
NV Energy notified customers that it may initiate a proactive Emergency De-Energization, or EDEN, because of active wildfire conditions. The utility explained that energized power lines near a wildfire can create secondary ignitions, potentially worsening the fire.
Three Things to Know
- Another prolonged outage is possible, although it may be canceled if conditions improve.
- NV Energy cannot provide a reliable restoration time during an emergency de-energization.
- Residents should charge essential devices, prepare emergency supplies and follow official sources for updates.
Saturday’s outage was part of a much larger regional disruption connected to the Hawk Fire. At its peak, emergency de-energization affected more than 60,000 NV Energy customers. Approximately 37,000 customers across Truckee and North Lake Tahoe also lost power after a critical transmission line was shut down. Most service was restored overnight, but the fire remains active and additional outages are possible. Read the regional outage update
Power outages are disruptive, especially when they happen without much warning. But with strong winds and an active wildfire threatening utility infrastructure, temporarily shutting down portions of the grid can help prevent additional ignitions and give firefighters and utility crews a safer environment in which to work.
Prepare While the Power Is On
Residents should take advantage of the advance notice by:
- Charging phones, portable batteries and medical equipment
- Filling vehicle fuel tanks or charging electric vehicles
- Having flashlights and fresh batteries accessible
- Preparing food, water and medications
- Keeping refrigerator and freezer doors closed during an outage
- Checking on neighbors who may need assistance
- Downloading or printing important emergency information
Visit NV Energy’s outage-preparation page for additional guidance.
Follow Verified Emergency Updates
The Hawk Fire has placed approximately 90,000 residents within GET-SET and GO-NOW evacuation zones. Conditions can change quickly, so residents should rely on official sources rather than social media rumors. View current fire and evacuation information.
NV Energy will post wildfire safety and outage updates through its Power Safe NV program.
How to Help Affected Families
Thousands of our neighbors have already evacuated or are preparing to leave, and some families have lost their homes.
Those able to help can donate through trusted regional relief organizations, including Ashlee’s Toy Closet, which is collecting supplies for children, families and pets affected by the Hawk Fire.
Financial donations can also be made to the American Red Cross of Nevada, which provides shelter, food, emergency supplies and recovery assistance following disasters.
Saturday’s outage was inconvenient. It was also a reminder that wildfire preparedness is not limited to communities immediately beside the flames. Charge what you need, review your emergency plan and be ready should conditions change.