Hawk Fire forces evacuation of nearly 14,000 homes near Reno
The rapidly spreading Hawk Fire burned over 10,500 acres on the Sierra foothills, prompting a state of emergency, evacuation orders for almost 14,000 residences and deployment of National Guard resources.
The Hawk Fire, which ignited Saturday in the Sierra foothills, expanded to more than 10,500 acres by early Sunday and pushed toward central Reno. Washoe County officials ordered the evacuation of nearly 14,000 homes, creating a “GO NOW” zone that reached the perimeter of the University of Nevada campus.
The Reno-Sparks Convention Center was opened as an evacuation shelter, though pets were directed to separate facilities. Governor Joe Lombardo declared a state of emergency and activated the Nevada National Guard, assigning two helicopter crews and 60 troops to assist with aerial suppression and security.
Truckee Meadows Fire & Rescue reported that strong, gusty winds, low humidity and dry vegetation accelerated the blaze. About 400 personnel from local, state and federal agencies were engaged in firefighting operations, including ground crews and air assets.
Power outages affected roughly 10,000 homes and businesses, and a portion of U.S. Route 395 was closed. The University of Nevada’s Reno campus and Reno-Tahoe International Airport remained outside the evacuation zone, while the smaller Reno-Stead Airport was closed to general aviation but stayed open for firefighting aircraft.
Reno Mayor Hillary Schieve urged residents to evacuate promptly, emphasizing safety over property. Washoe County Sheriff Darin Balaam said contingency plans were in place for a nearby detention facility should evacuation become necessary. Casinos in the city offered discounted hotel rooms to displaced residents.
The fire follows recent wildfires in the region that forced more than 13,000 people from their homes earlier this month.