A rapidly spreading wildfire in northwest Reno, Nevada, destroyed homes and posed challenges for firefighters on Sunday. The fire, known as the Hawk Fire, started on Saturday and expanded rapidly, consuming over 60 square kilometers in the Peavine Peak area of the Humboldt–Toiyabe National Forest near the California state line.
Shifting winds made the blaze difficult to contain, prompting authorities to issue evacuation orders for approximately 90,000 people. The fire, believed to be “human-caused,” resulted in injuries to six individuals, including first responders and civilians. The exact cause of the fire was not disclosed by officials.
As the fire threatened residential areas, some 42,000 residents were mandated to evacuate immediately, with an additional 45,000 individuals placed on evacuation alert. The University of Nevada was on the edge of the evacuation zone. Residents were urged to evacuate promptly and prepare to be away for several days due to the unpredictable nature of the fire.
One resident, Cari Kieffer, recounted how her family lost their home to the flames, with only a scorched basketball hoop remaining. The family rushed to save their belongings and pets as the fire rapidly approached their neighborhood.
In response to the escalating situation, Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo declared a state of emergency in Washoe County and deployed the Nevada National Guard to aid in firefighting efforts. The National Guard mobilized two helicopter crews and 60 troops to assist in protecting evacuated neighborhoods. Additionally, 800 firefighting personnel were battling the blaze.
Power outages affected nearly 10,000 customers in Washoe County as a result of the fire, and sections of U.S. Route 395 were closed due to the wildfire. The Reno-Sparks Convention Center was opened to evacuees, with provisions made for pet accommodations at separate locations. Local casinos offered discounted accommodations for those displaced by the fire.
The fire, which was initially minor, escalated rapidly due to strong winds and dry conditions. The University of Nevada campus narrowly avoided the evacuation zone, while hospitals and law enforcement agencies remained vigilant in their response to the unfolding crisis.
The fire’s speed and intensity posed significant challenges for responders, with shifting winds complicating containment efforts. The situation remained fluid, with authorities closely monitoring the fire’s progression and its impact on the community.