Tens of thousands evacuated as fire bears down on US city

Reno, Nevada – Tens of thousands of residents remain evacuated from their homes around Reno, Nevada, as a wind-driven wildfire, dubbed the "Hawk Fire," continues to rage through the parched landscape. Schools have been closed, and the city has been enveloped in smoke.

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Over the next 12 hours, the fire is expected to continue making moderate- to high-intensity runs in pockets of dense fuels.

Approximately 42,000 people have been forced to leave their residences, with an additional 45,000 on notice to prepare for potential evacuation, according to Reno Mayor Hillary Schieve. The fire, which ignited on Saturday, had expanded to over 15,000 acres by Monday, exhibiting "extreme fire behavior." It is burning just miles northwest of the city.

While no deaths have been reported, at least six individuals, including three first responders, have been injured. Several homes on mountaintops have been destroyed. Officials have stated the fire is "human-caused" but have not detailed the specific origin. Over 700 firefighters are engaged in combating the blaze, utilizing fire engines, helicopters, and bulldozers to clear brush in the extremely dry conditions.

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Over the next 24 hours, backing fire with periods of running fire behavior is possible where fuels, wind and topography align.

Firefighting statements indicate the fire is expected to continue its aggressive spread over the next 12 to 48 hours, driven by hot, dry, and breezy conditions that align with fuel and topography. The fire's potential to spread northeast and northwest means the situation remains dynamic and subject to rapid change. Images shared on social media show towering clouds of smoke rising over the mountains overlooking the city.

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The Hawk Fire is a very dynamic incident for us as it's being driven by the winds. The wind-driven fires move very rapidly into our residential areas.

Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo has declared a state of emergency for Washoe County, citing the fire's rapid spread and threat to homes and structures. Local fire chief Richard Edwards urged residents to be prepared for immediate evacuation when instructed, emphasizing the wind-driven nature of the fire and its swift movement into residential areas. Mayor Schieve reinforced this message, imploring residents not to delay evacuation orders.

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If you have been told to evacuate, please don't wait!