Nevada wildfire covers 10,000 acres, thousands evacuated

A rapidly spreading wildfire in northwestern Nevada is threatening residential neighborhoods, having already consumed more than 42 square kilometers. The blaze, which ignited in a remote part of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, is now surrounding homes and businesses near the Nevada-California border, with some structures already lost. The fire's rapid advance has prompted evacuation orders for nearly 14,000 homes.

Governor Joe Lombardo has declared a state of emergency in Washoe County, deploying the Nevada National Guard to support firefighting efforts. Approximately 60 military personnel and two helicopter teams are assisting ground crews and law enforcement in securing evacuated areas. The fire has also caused power outages for around 10,000 consumers in Washoe County and led to the closure of parts of the main north-south highway, Route 395.

Fire officials attribute the fire's swift spread to strong winds, low humidity, and dry vegetation. Around 400 personnel are actively engaged in combating the blaze, with resources arriving from local, state, and federal agencies, including aerial support. The University of Nevada, Reno campus is located just outside the current evacuation zone, though university officials are prepared for potential changes in conditions. Reno-Tahoe International Airport remains operational, while the smaller Reno-Stead Airport is closed to general aviation but active for firefighting aircraft.