Kathmandu— A fast-moving wildfire erupted near Reno, Nevada, on Saturday and quickly grew to encompass 20 square miles, forcing the evacuation of around 90,000 people as it destroyed homes and injured at least six individuals. The human-caused Hawk Fire spread rapidly through the Peavine Peak area of the Humboldt–Toiyabe National Forest due to strong winds, overwhelming initial firefighting efforts and prompting a state of emergency declaration from Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo. Residents were urged to evacuate immediately, with authorities preparing for several days of continued fire activity.

Rapid Fire Spread Challenges Responders

The Hawk Fire’s rapid spread Saturday night presented significant challenges for firefighters, jumping over vehicles and making it difficult to establish effective control points. Washoe County Sheriff Darin Balaam described the situation as “extremely confusing,” noting how shifting winds propelled the flames in unpredictable directions. Several structures were destroyed, and three civilians along with three first responders sustained injuries, though details regarding their conditions remained limited. Officials confirmed the fire was human-caused but did not immediately disclose specifics while an investigation is underway.

Evacuation Zones Expand

As of Sunday, approximately 42,000 residents were under mandatory evacuation orders within the “GO NOW” zone, which extended to the edge of the University of Nevada. An additional 45,000 people resided in an adjacent evacuation warning area and were urged to prepare to leave at a moment’s notice. Authorities emphasized that evacuees should anticipate being displaced for several days due to expected wind shifts and intensifying fire activity. The Reno-Sparks Convention Center was opened as an evacuation shelter, though pets could not be accommodated on site.

Community Impact and Loss

The wildfire has already resulted in significant personal losses for some residents. Cari Kieffer learned her home had burned down after seeing a video posted online, stating, “I woke up this morning and just started crying — all my kids, they lost everything.” She recounted the frantic evacuation process, describing how ash rained down as flames rapidly approached their neighborhood. Jaida Hargrove’s grandfather was forced to evacuate his Peavine Mountain home with only his two golden retrievers after firefighters were unable to contain the blaze. Both families have received support through GoFundMe campaigns established by community members.

Dry Conditions Fuel Wildfires

The rapid spread of the Hawk Fire is attributed in part to months of dry weather and a record lack of snowfall this past winter across the American West, creating ideal conditions for wildfires. This incident follows similar evacuations earlier this month in eastern Washington state and north of Reno, highlighting the increasing risk of wildfire activity in the region. Retired police officer Ted Melden, a recent transplant to Reno, noted that he has already experienced multiple natural disasters since moving from South Carolina just weeks ago.

Fire crews continue to battle the Hawk Fire, with support from the Nevada National Guard and additional resources. Residents are advised to monitor official channels for updates on evacuation orders and fire conditions.

(With inputs from AP)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.