Hawk Fire in Nevada prompts evacuations, road closures and power outages
The wind-driven Hawk Fire near Reno has burned over 15,000 acres, injured six people and forced evacuations in Nevada and California, while causing road closures and temporary power loss for more than 14,000 customers.
A wildfire that ignited shortly after 11 p.m. Saturday northwest of Reno has expanded to more than 15,000 acres, prompting a multi-agency response. At least six individuals, including three firefighters, have been injured, and the fire’s exact impact on homes remains unclear.
Washoe County officials have closed Highway 395 in both directions between Parr Boulevard and Red Rock Road. The Sierra County Sheriff's Office issued evacuation warnings for zones covering the Verdi and Long Valley areas of eastern Sierra County, advising residents to be prepared to leave if conditions worsen.
The Reno-Sparks Convention Center is designated as an emergency shelter, with access points specified by the U.S. Forest Service. Small animals can be taken to Washoe County Regional Animal Services, while larger animals may be housed at the Ironwood Event Center.
"NV Energy enacted an emergency de-energization of the transmission line that feeds our system due to its proximity to the Hawk Fire near Verdi," the Truckee Donner Public Utility District said on Facebook. Power was restored to all customers shortly before midnight on Saturday after affecting more than 14,000 customers.
Several California strike teams have been deployed to assist local crews. The U.S. Forest Service described the fire as wind-driven, spreading rapidly through light, flashy fuels, with warm temperatures and dry vegetation complicating suppression efforts.
"It is believed the fire is human-caused but there is no indication the fire was set intentionally," Reno Fire Chief David Cochran said.
Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo declared a state of emergency and activated the National Guard to support firefighting operations.