Wildfire rapidly approaches Reno, Nevada, forcing 42,000 to evacuate their homes
A fast-moving wildfire in Reno, Nevada, has forced the evacuation of 42,000 residents and injured at least six people. The human-caused fire has destroyed homes and continues to threaten the University of Nevada area due to unpredictable winds.
Why it matters
This highlights the increasing threat of wildfires to urban areas and the logistical challenges of emergency evacuations.
Smoke rises from Hawk fire in Reno, Nevada, U.S., on Saturday in this screengrab taken from social media video. Simon Jowitt/Reuters
A fast-moving wildfire that jumped over fire trucks and made it difficult for crews to reach hot spots destroyed homes in northwest Reno, Nevada, on Sunday. Shifting winds challenged firefighters trying to bring it under control, and authorities urged some 90,000 people to evacuate.
At least six people – three first responders and three civilians – were injured, officials said. Officials said the fire was “human-caused” but did not provide details on how they reached that conclusion, or whether it was intentionally set or accidental.
The Hawk Fire began Saturday and quickly grew to more than 60 sq. km. as it spread across the Peavine Peak area of the Humboldt–Toiyabe National Forest, where rugged foothills are ringed by homes and businesses near the California state line.
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