Hawk Fire burns 15,000 acres in Nevada, evacuations continue as winds rise

The Hawk Fire, which ignited Saturday near Somersett, has expanded to about 15,050 acres and remains 0% contained, according to incident officials on Monday morning. Firefighters are concentrating on holding lines east of Dog Valley Road and south of U.S. Highway 395, using handlines, direct attack and aerial retardant where conditions permit. Roughly 720 personnel, including 14 crews, 95 engines, 10 helicopters and nine dozers, are assigned to the effort.

Winds are expected to shift this afternoon, with Zephyr gusts of 30-35 mph potentially increasing fire activity. Temperatures will stay in the low to mid-90s through the week, and a low-pressure system later in the week could bring drier air and stronger winds. No red-flag warning is in effect, but relative humidity is projected to be slightly higher than typical.

Evacuation orders, labeled "Go Now," remain in place for multiple North Valleys communities such as Cold Springs, Red Rock, Silver Knolls, Stead, Lemmon Valley, Golden Valley, and parts of northwest Reno. "Get Ready" warnings also cover several neighborhoods. Authorities have not set a timeline for lifting the orders and are coordinating re-entry decisions based on fire conditions and safety assessments.

Power outages affect nearly 10,000 customers in Washoe County due to emergency de-energization, and gas service has been shut off for about 250 customers as a precaution. Governor Joe Lombardo declared a state of emergency and mobilized the Nevada National Guard, which is providing a CH-47 Chinook, a UH-60 Black Hawk and 60 response-force personnel to support aerial firefighting and law-enforcement protection of evacuated areas.

Sheriff Darin Balaam said the fire moved rapidly Saturday night, jumping over fire trucks and complicating response efforts, and described the situation as "extremely confusing" because shifting winds redirected flames. At least six people, including three civilians and three first responders, have been injured. Damage assessments are ongoing; officials confirmed some structures have been damaged or destroyed but have not released a total count.

A temporary flight restriction is in effect, and officials warned that drone operations near the fire could halt firefighting aircraft. A press briefing is scheduled for 2 p.m. Monday, with a community meeting at 7 p.m. to provide updates and answer questions.