Tens of Thousands Evacuated as Wildfire Threatens Reno, Nevada

Tens of thousands of residents were expected to spend another night away from their homes on Monday as strong winds pushed a fast-moving wildfire toward Reno in the western United States.

Schools across the Nevada city, located near the California border and home to roughly 280,000 people, were closed as thick smoke blanketed the area.

About 24,000 people remained under evacuation orders Monday, officials said, down from more than 40,000 at the height of the emergency. Tens of thousands of others were placed on evacuation alert and advised to keep essential belongings ready in case they were ordered to leave.

The Hawk Fire, which started Saturday, had expanded to more than 15,000 acres (6,000 hectares) by Monday. Firefighters had managed to contain about 27% of its perimeter, with parts of the blaze burning just five miles (eight kilometers) northwest of Reno.

No fatalities have been reported, though seven people, including three first responders, have been injured. At least 32 properties have been destroyed, while several others sustained damage. Officials warned that the number could increase as crews gain access to areas deeper inside the fire zone.

Truckee Meadows Fire Chief Richard Edwards said Monday that the fire was believed to have been caused by human activity, although investigators have yet to determine whether it was intentional or accidental. He said the incident would likely ultimately be classified as undetermined.

More than 900 firefighters were battling the blaze using engines, helicopters and bulldozers to tackle the extremely dry vegetation. Fire crews from across the United States, as well as teams from Australia and New Zealand, joined the firefighting operation.

Edwards urged residents to act immediately if evacuation orders were issued, warning that strong winds could rapidly push the flames into residential areas.

“The Hawk Fire is a very dynamic incident for us as it's being driven by the winds,” he said, emphasizing the speed at which wind-driven fires can spread.

Reno Mayor Hillary Schieve also issued a direct warning to residents: “If you have been told to evacuate, please don't wait!”