Out-of-control fire threatens Reno: Nearly 14,000 homes ordered to evacuate
The Hawk Fire has burned more than 10,500 acres in Nevada, prompting Governor Joe Lombardo to declare a state of emergency in Washoe County. The National Guard has been mobilized to assist in firefighting efforts.
Fire in the U.S., in a file photo
A rapidly spreading wildfire was advancing Sunday toward Reno, Nevada, after burning more than 10,500 acres and triggering evacuation orders for nearly 14,000 homes, according to The Associated Press (AP).
The so-called Hawk Fire began Saturday in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada and spread rapidly, fueled by strong winds, low humidity, and dry vegetation. The immediate evacuation zone extended to the vicinity of the University of Nevada, Reno campus.
Nevada declares state of emergency
"Please heed all warnings from local authorities, evacuate immediately if ordered to do so, and do not put yourselves or first responders at risk," Lombardo said.
The emergency declaration allowed for the mobilization of state resources and the activation of the Nevada National Guard, which deployed two teams of helicopters to support aerial operations and approximately 60 personnel to assist with security in the evacuated areas, according to the AP.
Hundreds of firefighters are battling the flames
About 400 personnel from local, state, and federal agencies are participating in efforts to contain the fire. In addition, nearly 10,000 homes and businesses were without power in Washoe County, and several sections of U.S. Route 395 were closed due to the fire.
Reno Mayor Hillary Schieve urged residents not to delay evacuations and warned that some structures had already been engulfed by flames.
The information was also reported by Just the News, which highlighted the emergency declaration issued by Lombardo in response to the rapid spread of the Hawk Fire.
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