A rapidly expanding wildfire near Reno, Nevada, has forced more than 42,000 people to leave their homes, while approximately 45,000 others have been advised to prepare for possible evacuation.
Known as the Hawk Fire, the blaze spread across more than 23 square miles as dry vegetation and frequently changing winds created dangerous conditions for firefighters. At least six people, including three emergency responders, were reported injured. More than 800 personnel were involved in the response.
The evacuation zone threatened residential neighbourhoods and approached hospitals and areas near the University of Nevada. Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo declared a state of emergency and activated the National Guard to assist local authorities.
The cause has been classified as human-related, although officials had not released further details when the latest report was published.
Why it matters: The fire demonstrates how quickly dry conditions and unpredictable winds can turn a local blaze into a large urban emergency.
