The 12,794-acre Hot Canyon Fire, burning in Elko County, is now fully contained after weather previously delayed that goal. 

The fire was sparked by lightning on July 8.

Fire crews will continue mop-up operations along the perimeter.

July 21, 6:04 a.m. Update:

The lightning-sparked Hot Canyon Fire in Elko County is expected to be fully contained sometime on Monday. 

It's currently 95% contained at 12,794 aces, northwest of Montello.

Crews are currently focusing on mop-up efforts.

Original Story (7/16/2025, 3:25 p.m.):

The Hot Canyon Fire northwest of Montello in Elko County is now 71% contained, according to the Nevada Division of Forestry, in an online Facebook post.

The fire, sparked by lightning around 1 p.m. on July 8, has burned an estimated 12,794 acres.

Firefighters observed minimal fire activity today despite strong downdrafts from passing thunderstorms.

Crews from the Bureau of Land Management, Nevada Division of Forestry, Elko County, and the Forest Service are maintaining a full suppression strategy, using both direct and indirect tactics with air and ground support.

Mop-up efforts on interior islands are a key focus, and firefighter and public safety remain the top priority.

Crews are working to prevent fire spread to homes, private land, and critical sage-grouse habitat.

Weather conditions remain challenging, with the potential for dry thunderstorms, low humidity, and gusty winds through Thursday.

Full containment is still expected by July 20.

For more details and real-time updates, visit inciweb.wildfire.gov or NevadaFireInfo.org.

Hot Canyon Fire July 16 Map