Kathmandu— A rapidly spreading wildfire is threatening homes and prompting widespread evacuations in northwest Nevada after igniting Saturday near the Hawk Meadow Trail outside of Reno. Fueled by strong winds, low humidity, and dry vegetation, the blaze – dubbed the Hawk Fire – has grown to over 4,450 hectares (10,500 acres) and prompted a state of emergency declaration from Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo. Approximately 42,000 residents have been ordered to evacuate, with another 45,000 under evacuation warning, as the fire has injured at least six people and caused nearly 10,000 power outages.

Rapid Fire Growth Drives Evacuations

The Hawk Fire’s rapid expansion caught many residents off guard. Tyler Duvall, a local resident, noted that the fire was mild Saturday morning but quickly escalated due to strong winds. By Sunday, his home was within the evacuation zone, preventing his return. Richard Edwards, chief of Truckee Meadows Fire and Rescue, described the situation as “very dynamic,” emphasizing the wind’s role in driving the blaze. Reno Mayor Hillary Schieve urged residents to heed evacuation orders, stating that “your life is more important than a building” and that evacuating allows firefighters to focus on containment.

Emergency Response Mobilized

Washoe County officials have opened the Reno-Sparks Convention Center as a shelter for evacuees, though pets are not permitted at this location. Local casinos are offering discounted hotel rooms to those displaced by the fire. Approximately 400 personnel from local, state, and federal agencies are currently battling the blaze, utilizing both ground crews and air resources. Governor Lombardo has mobilized the Nevada National Guard, deploying two helicopter crews and 60 troops to assist with aerial firefighting and secure evacuated neighborhoods.

Residents Prepare for Prolonged Displacement

Emergency officials are encouraging those in the evacuation warning zone to leave immediately and prepare to be away from their homes for several days. Retired police officer and firefighter Ted Melden, a recent transplant to Reno, shared his experience with local disasters, having already weathered a hailstorm, flood, and another wildfire since moving earlier this month. He emphasized the importance of preparedness, stating, “You just have to roll with the flow and be ready.”

Airport Operations Remain Unaffected

Despite the proximity of the fire, commercial flights at the Reno-Tahoe International Airport have not been impacted as of Sunday. This allows for continued access and potential support from outside the region.

Firefighters continue to battle the Hawk Fire, working to contain its spread and protect remaining structures. Officials are monitoring conditions closely and providing updates to residents as they become available.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.