A wildfire that exploded in size over the weekend in the Sierra Nevada foothills is threatening neighborhoods in Reno, Nevada, forcing authorities to urge more than 90,000 residents to leave their homes.
The Hawk Fire, which began Saturday, grew to over 23 square miles by Sunday, with shifting winds raising concerns it could spread into densely packed residential areas in Nevada's largest city outside the Las Vegas metro area. The fire had zero containment as of late Sunday.
Schools across the county were closed Monday due to the evacuations and to ensure clear roads for emergency crews. Some residents encountered roadblocks and expressed frustration at being unable to return to their homes.
Authorities reported late Sunday that the fire had largely stayed within its footprint, and firefighters were working to extinguish hot spots while preventing it from crossing a main highway and reaching populated areas. At least six individuals, including three first responders and three civilians, have sustained injuries.
Officials have stated the fire was human-caused, though the specific origin – whether accidental or intentional – has not been disclosed. Social media videos have shown the charred remains of homes and vehicles.
Many residents had little time to evacuate as the fire rapidly expanded. The Hawk Fire marks the third significant wildfire in the rugged terrain north of Reno in the past two weeks, all attributed to human activity.
Dry conditions across the American West have contributed to a surge in wildfires this summer. The National Interagency Fire Center reports that nationwide, over 50,000 wildfires have occurred, the highest number in the past decade for the same period.