Reno Faces Growing Wildfire Threat as Thousands Evacuate

A fast-moving Hawk Fire is threatening communities around Reno, Nevada, forcing tens of thousands of residents to leave their homes as strong winds and dry conditions drive the flames toward populated areas. Nearly 90,000 people have been affected by evacuation orders or warnings, including about 42,000 residents under mandatory orders and another 45,000 urged to prepare to leave.

Hawk Fire Spreads Rapidly

The wildfire began Saturday near the Peavine Peak area northwest of Reno and expanded rapidly as shifting winds made firefighting extremely difficult. By Sunday, the blaze had grown to more than 15,000 acres, while officials warned that its unpredictable behavior could continue to threaten neighborhoods. Several structures have been destroyed, and at least six people, including three firefighters or other first responders, have been injured.

Fire crews have struggled to reach hot spots because flames have moved quickly and changed direction with the wind. Authorities said the fire was human-caused, although officials have not released details about how it started. Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo declared a state of emergency in Washoe County and mobilized National Guard personnel to help with the emergency response and protect evacuated neighborhoods.

Evacuations Disrupt Reno

The growing fire has disrupted roads, power supplies and local services. Portions of U.S. Route 395 have been closed, while nearly 10,000 homes and businesses in Washoe County were without electricity. Emergency shelters have been opened for displaced residents, with separate facilities available for people evacuating with pets and larger animals.

The evacuation zone has also approached the University of Nevada, Reno campus. The university remained outside the evacuation area, but officials said they were monitoring conditions and had an emergency response plan in place as students prepared for the start of the academic year. Reno-Tahoe International Airport also remained outside the evacuation zone, although the nearby Reno-Stead Airport was closed to general aviation because of the fire.

Officials continue to urge residents in evacuation areas to leave immediately rather than waiting for conditions to deteriorate. The rapidly changing winds have made the fire difficult to predict, increasing the risk to people who delay evacuation. Firefighters from local, state and federal agencies are working together with aerial resources to slow the blaze and protect homes and critical infrastructure.

The Hawk Fire follows other recent wildfires in the Reno area, highlighting the continuing wildfire danger across northern Nevada. For residents still near the affected areas, authorities are emphasizing evacuation readiness, attention to official warnings and keeping roads clear so emergency crews can reach threatened communities.

Source : bbc.com