Wildfire nears Reno, Nevada, with thousands ordered to evacuate

A rapidly spreading wildfire ravaged homes and neighborhoods in northwest Reno, Nevada, on Sunday, prompting authorities to urge some 90,000 residents to evacuate. The fast-moving blaze, dubbed the Hawk Fire, had already claimed at least six lives, including three first responders and three civilians. Firefighters found it challenging to control the flames due to shifting winds, which complicated their efforts to reach hot spots.

The fire ignited on Saturday and rapidly expanded to over 23 square miles (60 sq. km.) as it engulfed the Peavine Peak area of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. This region is situated near the California state line, with rugged foothills bordering homes and businesses. Due to the fire's proximity to the University of Nevada, the "GO NOW" evacuation zone was expanded to encompass the university's edge, affecting a total of 42,000 residents.

An additional 45,000 people were placed under an evacuation warning zone, and authorities strongly advised everyone in these zones to leave their homes and be prepared to stay away for several days. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, but officials have determined it to be "human-caused," though they have not disclosed specifics on whether the fire was intentionally set or accidental.