Hawk Fire Scorches Over 10,500 Acres Near Reno, Prompting Evacuations
A fast-moving brush fire outside Reno burned more than 10,500 acres, threatened about 1,000 homes and led to evacuations after the governor declared a state of emergency.
A brush fire that ignited Saturday outside Reno, Nevada, spread across more than 10,500 acres, driven by strong gusty winds, low humidity and dry vegetation, according to the Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District. The blaze threatened roughly 1,000 homes and forced new evacuations in the Somersett area and several neighborhoods north of West 7th Street.
Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo declared a state of emergency for Washoe County and urged residents to stay vigilant and follow local officials' directions. About 400 firefighters and other personnel from local, state and federal agencies were deployed, with three helicopters slated to operate overnight.
"The Hawk Fire is a very dynamic incident for us as it's being driven by the winds," said Truckee Meadows Fire and Rescue Chief Richard Edwards in a video posted to social media.
"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," Edwards added.
Reno Mayor Hillary Schieve warned residents ordered to evacuate not to delay, noting that structures had already been damaged. Washoe County Sheriff Darin Balaam said his office was coordinating with fire crews and monitoring a nearby correctional facility, emphasizing the safety of inmates and staff.