"This incident is notable for its rapid initial growth to nearly 9,000 acres and the substantial resources committed—over 500 personnel and a $14.6 million estimated cost—before achieving full containment within 25 days."
The Ward wildfire, located 6 miles south of Ely in White Pine County, Nevada, was discovered on July 31, 2026 and is a natural fire under USFS jurisdiction. It rapidly expanded to 8,775 acres by August 6, 2026, with 5% containment and 546 personnel on the scene. Over the next week containment rose sharply to 35% by August 8, and by August 10 the fire had shrunk to 8,683 acres with 67% containment. From August 11 onward the fire size remained steady at 8,683 acres while containment climbed from 83% to 100% by August 25, with personnel decreasing from 593 to just 2 as the fire was fully contained. The estimated cost rose from $8.4 million on August 7 to $14.6 million by the final report.
Official source description: 6 Miles S from Ely, NV
Minimal; Smoldering; Creeping; Isolated Torching
Good air quality. Outdoor activity is generally safe near this incident.
Nearest reporting station: Great Basin National Park. Source: AirNow.gov (EPA).
The fire is now fully contained and behavior is minimal; standard wildfire safety precautions remain advised for the surrounding area.
IRWIN ID: {21AB97F4-82F1-4569-9FF4-4A716C703575}
Discovered: Jul 31, 2026
Cause: Natural
Managing Agency: USFS
Est. Cost to Date: $14,600,000
Coordinates: 39.1032, -114.8949
Other wildfires that have recently been contained or dropped from official tracking in NV.
The Ward Fire has burned 8,683 acres as of August 25, 2026.
Yes, the Ward Fire is fully contained (100%).
The official cause has been listed as: Natural.
The Ward Fire is burning in White Pine, NV.
Yes, as of the latest official update, the Ward Fire remains active.
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