Evacuation orders and warnings are being lifted for portions of the Hawk Fire’s affected area as containment lines are established. The specific geographic areas where return is authorized are from confirmed reporting. Areas with established containment lines are being evaluated first; areas closer to the fire’s main extent or where active hot spots remain are still under orders.
THE TOXIN CAUTION
Returning home and being safe are not the same thing in the first weeks after a wildfire burn zone. Wildfire structural burn residue includes asbestos, lead paint particles, benzene compounds, and heavy metals. Residents returning near or in areas where structures burned should follow official guidance on soil and water testing before gardening, outdoor activity, or using well water.
Some evacuees are going home. Others are still waiting. The ones going home should check official guidance about what is and isn’t safe in burn zone areas.
| CONFIDENCE: HIGH | Hawk Fire partial evacuation lifting from confirmed reporting. |
SOURCES
▸ Confirmed reporting — Hawk Fire partial evacuation lifting, August 28, 2026
