Tens of thousands evacuated as fire bears down on US city

A wind-driven fire, known as the Hawk Fire, has forced tens of thousands of residents to evacuate their homes in the western Nevada city of Reno, which is situated near the California border and is home to approximately 280,000 people. Schools were closed as smoke filled the air, enveloping the city on Monday. Mayor Hillary Schieve informed CNN that around 42,000 individuals have been compelled to leave their homes, while an additional 45,000 are prepared to evacuate at a moment's notice.

The fire, which began on Saturday and has expanded to 15,051 acres (6,091 hectares) by Monday, is exhibiting extreme fire behavior, according to InciWeb, a US government website that monitors fire activity. The blaze is situated five miles (eight kilometers) northwest of the city and has resulted in at least six injuries, including three first responders, with several mountaintop houses destroyed.

Although no fatalities have been reported, the fire was reportedly caused by human activity, though the precise origin has not been disclosed. Over 700 firefighters are battling the flames, utilizing fire engines, helicopters, and bulldozers, in an attempt to clear the area of extremely dry brush. Over the next 12 hours, the fire is anticipated to continue causing moderate-to-high-intensity runs in pockets of dense fuels, while over the next 24 hours, conditions may allow for both running and backing fire behavior, depending on fuel, wind, and topography.

Hot, dry, and breezy conditions are expected to persist, supporting active fire behavior over the next 48 hours. The fire poses a significant threat to nearby homes and structures, as declared by Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo in a state of emergency order for Washoe County. Reno's fire chief, Richard Edwards, advised residents to be prepared for immediate evacuation should they receive instructions to do so.

Edwards emphasized that the Hawk Fire is a rapidly changing incident driven by strong winds, which can lead to rapid movement into residential areas. Schieve, the Reno mayor, reiterated the urgency of the situation, stating, "If you have been told to evacuate, please don't wait!"