Cottonwood Peak Fire faces weather challenges
The Cottonwood Peak Fire north of Tuscarora in Elko County continues to burn through Monday evening, the Bureau of Land Management, Elko District said in a press release.
In an update Monday night, the BLM said the fire has grown to 29,285 acres from 28,000 acres, and containment was reduced to only 4 percent; earlier in the day, the fire was reported to be 10 percent contained.
The fire has rapidly grown since it sparked on Friday, according to the BLM.
Authorities said firefighters made good progress Sunday building sections of containment line along the northwest and southwest perimeter where the fire remains the most active.
The number of personnel on scene has nearly doubled from more than 280 personnel to 478 personnel by Monday evening, according to the press release. As they work to combat the flames, they are facing high winds with gusts, and dry conditions, the BLM said. “When strong winds have blown across the area, they have caused the fire to spread and grow at a rapid rate,” the press release states.
The area around the Ormat Geothermal Power Plant has been secured by crews, and “transmission lines leading from the power station were reenergized Sunday,” the BLM explained.
Aggressive firefighting efforts will continue with a focus on locations deemed of high importance, the press release states. Crews are reportedly also working to keep the fire from crossing over Highway 226. In the meantime, there are no structure losses reported, the BLM said.
Temporary flight restrictions are in place for the area surrounding the fire, as well as temporary closures on the ground, including the Wilson Reservoir Recreation Area Campground and BLM Road 1094.
Jack Creek Campground closed until further notice pic.twitter.com/gvlYPicH1f
— Humboldt Toiyabe NF (@HumboldtToiyabe) August 18, 2025
As authorities earlier estimated Monday morning, hotter and drier weather conditions in addition to heavy winds has “led to a significant increase in fire activity.” They went on to say “the fire spread several miles north, crossing Deep Creek Road and advancing toward Bull Run Basin,” and more growth occurred along the west flank.
Looking ahead, authorities say Tuesday brings more challenges as hotter and drier temperatures are expected along with “strong, gusty south winds, which could compromise containment lines and result in additional fire growth,” the BLM said. Thunderstorms, lightning and wind gusts could impact firefighting efforts later in the week, the press release states.
Contact Arlette Yousif at ayousif@reviewjournal.com and follow her on Instagram at @arletteyousif.