A fast-moving wildfire near Reno, Nevada, has forced tens of thousands of residents from their homes as firefighters battle extreme conditions and officials investigate a fire they say was caused by human activity.
The Hawk Fire has rapidly expanded across the Peavine Peak area of the Humboldt–Toiyabe National Forest, threatening neighborhoods and structures on the outskirts of Reno. By Sunday, the blaze had grown beyond 13,000 acres and remained uncontained.
Authorities have ordered about 42,000 people to evacuate, while another roughly 45,000 residents are in areas under evacuation warnings. Officials have urged people in warning zones to prepare to leave quickly as changing winds continue to make the fire unpredictable.
The fire has already destroyed homes and other structures, although officials have not yet completed a full assessment of the damage. At least six people, including three firefighters or other first responders and three civilians, have been injured.
Fire officials said the blaze was human-caused, but authorities have not disclosed exactly how it started or whether it was accidental or intentional. An investigation remains underway.
Strong winds, low humidity and dry vegetation have made conditions particularly dangerous, allowing flames to move rapidly and change direction. Fire crews have faced difficulties reaching some areas as the fire spread across rugged terrain.
Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo declared a state of emergency in Washoe County and activated additional resources, including National Guard support, as firefighters from multiple jurisdictions work to protect communities.
The wildfire has also caused power outages and transportation disruptions, adding to the challenges faced by residents who have been forced to leave their homes.
Officials are urging residents under evacuation orders to leave immediately rather than wait for conditions to deteriorate. Emergency managers are also asking people in warning areas to keep evacuation supplies ready and avoid roads that could be needed by emergency crews.
The Hawk Fire remains an active and rapidly changing emergency, with firefighters continuing efforts to slow its advance while authorities assess damage and investigate its origin.
