Hawk Fire update: At least seven injured, 24,000 remain under evacuation orders as fire contained 27%
Tens of thousands forced to evacuate in northwest Reno as strong winds hamper firefighting efforts after the Hawk wildfire erupted on 22 August and spread across over 15,000 acres. At least seven people have been reported injured, and 32 properties were destroyed.
As of Monday afternoon, firefighters in Reno, Nevada were making progress in containing the Hawk Fire, which had already burned through more than 15,000 acres of land. Despite shifting winds and strong gusts, officials reported that the fire was at least 27% contained. Roughly 24,000 residents were under evacuation orders, down from a peak of 40,000 at the beginning of the week.
The remaining evacuees were instructed to have their bags packed, ready to leave at a moment's notice. Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District Chief Richard Edwards revealed that several evacuation orders had been reduced, with some residents in the Somersett area now in the "Get Set to Evacuate" status. The cause of the fire remains undetermined, though officials are investigating whether it was intentional or accidental.
The dynamic nature of the fire, driven by strong winds, has raised concerns about its potential to spread into densely populated neighborhoods on the outskirts of Reno. Meanwhile, the Washoe County Sheriff's Office urged residents to remain vigilant and prepared, as conditions could change rapidly. No fatalities have been reported, but seven people were injured, including three first responders, and at least 32 properties were destroyed.
As the fire continues to spread, over 900 firefighters, including teams from Australia, New Zealand, and the United States, are working tirelessly to contain the blaze.
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