Hawk Fire Explodes to 10,500 Acres Near Reno, Forcing Mass Evacuations

A fast-moving wildfire near Reno, Nevada, grew beyond 10,500 acres Saturday, prompting expanding evacuations and a state emergency declaration. The Hawk Fire, burning northwest of Reno, was driven by strong, gusty winds, low humidity and dry vegetation, according to Truckee Meadows Fire & Rescue. Washoe County reported about 10,500 acres and 400 personnel assigned Saturday evening, while authorities said structures had burned and about 1,000 homes were threatened. Governor Joe Lombardo activated the Nevada National Guard, including helicopters and 60 personnel assisting law enforcement. U.S. 395 was closed through the affected area, hospitals evacuated patients, and shelters opened in Reno. By early Sunday, the situation worsened: Associated Press reported the fire exceeded 13,000 acres, remained 0% contained, injured six people and prompted evacuation orders covering about 42,000 residents, with another 45,000 under warnings. Authorities later described the fire as human-caused. The University of Nevada campus remained outside evacuation zones.