Wildfire Shuts Down Major Western Interstate, Disrupting Travel
A fast-moving wildfire near Floriston at the California-Nevada border forced the closure of westbound Interstate 80 and prompted evacuation warnings near Boca Reservoir before crews began reopening the highway under restrictions.
Westbound I-80 closed during fire response
The fire was reported around 10 a.m. Wednesday and expanded rapidly, growing from an estimated 10 acres to more than 600 acres. Later reports placed the fire at approximately 640 acres.
Westbound I-80 was closed at the Nevada state line and near Exit 4, the Boomtown/Verdi area, while firefighters worked to contain the blaze. Officials cited the potential for rockfall and other material to reach the highway as a safety concern. The California Highway Patrol initially reported there was no estimated reopening time.
Evacuation warnings issued near Boca Reservoir
The wildfire prompted evacuation orders and warnings in parts of Nevada and Sierra counties, including areas near Boca Reservoir. The fire response was being managed under a unified command involving Cal Fire and the Tahoe National Forest.
AlertCalifornia cameras showed a large plume of smoke from the fire as it spread near the state line. Emergency officials continued to monitor the fire’s movement and its potential effects on nearby communities and transportation routes.
Fire train supports firefighting operations
A Union Pacific fire train carrying approximately 100,000 gallons of water was deployed to support firefighting efforts near the blaze. Fire crews and other emergency responders remained active in the area as the fire threatened the interstate corridor.
Highway partially reopens with restrictions
Interstate 80 has since reopened for travel between California and Nevada as crews gained control of the wildfire. The reopening is partial and subject to restrictions while firefighting operations continue.
Motor carriers traveling through the area should expect possible delays, changing traffic controls and additional closures if fire conditions or emergency operations require them.
