Elko County has a vast expanse of rugged mountain ranges, desert valleys, and a variety of rivers and streams. The area is prone to wildfires, especially during dry and hot seasons. It’s crucial for older adults and people with disabilities to have a well-thought-out evacuation plan, considering your unique needs, in case of a wildfire.

Smoke associated with wildfires can contribute to COPD exacerbations during heavy smoke conditions, especially in older populations. Visit Rural NV Smoke for up-to-date smoke conditions in the area.

The area can experience severe winter weather conditions, including heavy snowstorms, which can impact transportation and infrastructure. Sudden heavy rainfall can lead to flash floods, posing risks to residents and motorists.

You can help to protect yourself by:

• Thinking about how a flood could affect you
• Planning for your needs in the event of evacuation, being trapped at home, or losing power
• Creating winter emergency kits
• Arranging for snow removal assistance
• Staying informed about weather forecasts
• Preparing defensible space around your home
• Staying informed on wildfires

It’s crucial for residents of Elko County to stay informed about potential emergencies and have an emergency preparedness plan in place, including having a network, knowing evacuation routes, having emergency supplies, and staying tuned to local news and authorities for updates during such events.

Emergency Contact Information

• Emergency: 9-1-1
• Mental Health Emergency: 9-8-8
• Emergency Alerts & Severe Weather Warnings
• Elko County Sheriff’s Office: 775-738-3421
• Elko County Fire Protection District: 775-738-9960
• Elko County Emergency Management
• Nevada Health, Human and Social Services: 2-1-1
• Nevada Dept. of Transportation (Live Traffic/Road Conditions/Cameras): 5-1-1
• PERIMETER (Real-time mapping for evacuations and other emergency incidents)
• Poison Control: 800-222-1222
• NV Energy (Outages & Emergencies): 775-834-4100 — Call 9-1-1 for a gas leak
• Southwest Gas: 800-772-4555 — Call 9-1-1 for a gas leak
• Nevada Highway Patrol: 775-688-2500
• American Red Cross: 775-856-1000
• Salvation Army: 775-688-4588
• Weather Updates
• CDC: 800-311-3435