Fast-growing Hawk Fire near Reno, Nevada forces thousands to evacuate

Reno, Nevada, is grappling with the rapidly expanding Hawk Fire, which has prompted evacuations for nearly 14,000 homes as it surges toward the city center. By Sunday morning, the blaze had consumed over 10,500 acres and remained 0% contained, with its "GO NOW" evacuation zone reaching the outskirts of the University of Nevada campus.

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This is an active and rapidly evolving situation, and I urge everyone in the affected areas to remain vigilant and follow the direction of local officials.

Governor Joe Lombardo has declared a state of emergency for Washoe County. He has mobilized the Nevada National Guard, deploying two helicopter crews for aerial firefighting support and 60 troops to aid police in safeguarding evacuated neighborhoods. "This is an active and rapidly evolving situation," Lombardo stated, urging residents to stay vigilant and follow official guidance.

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The state is fully engaged, and we are working alongside local authorities and first responders to deploy every available resource to protect lives, safeguard communities, and keep Nevadans out of harm's way.

The fire, which reportedly began Saturday, intensified significantly throughout the day. Truckee Meadows Fire & Rescue attributed its rapid growth to strong, gusty winds, low humidity, and dry vegetation. "The Hawk Fire is a very dynamic incident for us as it's being driven by the winds," said Chief Richard Edwards of Truckee Meadows Fire & Rescue. He emphasized the speed at which wind-driven fires can move into residential areas, presenting considerable challenges for firefighters trying to protect lives and homes.

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The Hawk Fire is a very dynamic incident for us as it's being driven by the winds.

Emergency officials in Washoe County have opened the Reno-Sparks Convention Center to accommodate evacuees. However, pet owners were directed to separate locations for small and large animals. The state is coordinating with local authorities and first responders, committing all available resources to mitigate the fire's impact.

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The wind-driven fires move very rapidly into our residential areas, creating a lot of challenges for our firefighters to save homes and protect lives.