6 injured, structures lost as 13,000-acre Hawk Fire burns near Reno, Nevada
More than 42,000 people are under evacuation orders as a fast-moving wildfire near Reno, Nevada, has burned about 13,000 acres, injured six people and destroyed an unknown number of structures, according to officials.
The Hawk Fire was reported at about 11:15 a.m. on Saturday near Hawk Meadow Trail, northwest of Reno. It burned south toward the Somersett community before pushing northeast across Peavine Peak toward U.S. Highway 395 and the Golden Valley and Cold Springs areas.
Three civilians and three first responders have been injured. Officials said structures have been lost, but damage assessments are still underway.
Fire officials said the blaze was human-caused, though the circumstances remain under investigation. About 800 personnel are working around the clock with ground crews and aircraft, but crews faced extreme fire behavior on Saturday because of Red Flag conditions.
Strong winds are expected to return, with officials expecting the fire to continue pushing north. Another 45,000 people have been told to prepare for possible evacuation.
“With our wind conditions, with our fire conditions, if you’re in the yellow and you can leave, please leave,” Washoe County Sheriff Darin Balaam said, referring to the pre-evacuation zone. “Find a way that you can stay out of the area for the next couple days.”
Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo declared a state of emergency and authorized two National Guard helicopters to assist firefighters, along with 60 Guard members for security operations. The Reno Convention Center has opened shelter space for evacuees, with 950 beds expected to be available.
The post 6 injured, structures lost as 13,000-acre Hawk Fire burns near Reno, Nevada appeared first on BNO News.
Ella Rae Greene, Editor In Chief
