Hawk Fire Scorches Over 10,000 Acres Near Reno, Threatening Homes and Prompting Emergency Declarations

RENO, Nev. — A massive brush fire tore through more than 10,500 acres of dry Nevada terrain Saturday, forcing evacuations and putting roughly 1,000 homes at risk as firefighters from multiple agencies worked through the night to contain the flames.

The Hawk Fire exploded across the hills outside Reno throughout the day, driven by strong wind gusts, low humidity, and tinder-dry vegetation. Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo responded by declaring a state of emergency for Washoe County as the blaze grew.

"The Hawk Fire is a very dynamic incident for us as it's being driven by the winds," said Truckee Meadows Fire and Rescue Chief Richard Edwards in a video message. "The wind-driven fires move very rapidly into our residential areas, creating a lot of challenges for our firefighters to save homes and protect lives."

By Saturday evening, approximately 400 firefighters and emergency personnel were deployed against the flames, working both on the ground and from the air. Three helicopters were scheduled to continue flying overnight to battle the fire from above.

Officials issued new evacuation orders for the Somersett community, covering areas north of Somersett Parkway to Robb Drive, as well as neighborhoods stretching from West 7th Street to North McCarran Boulevard. An additional 1,000 homes were placed under a "Warning — GET SET" status, meaning residents were told to prepare for potential evacuation.

Reno Mayor Hillary Schieve urged anyone under evacuation orders not to delay leaving.

"If you have been told to evacuate, please don't wait! Structures have already been burned in this fire and your life is more important than a building," Schieve said in a statement. She noted that early departures also allow firefighters to focus on suppressing the flames rather than conducting rescues.

The governor echoed concerns about the threat to homes and other structures.

"This is an active and rapidly evolving situation, and I urge everyone in the affected areas to remain vigilant and follow the direction of local officials," Lombardo said.

Authorities were also monitoring conditions near a Washoe County correctional facility located in the fire's path. Washoe County Sheriff Darin Balaam said his office was coordinating with fire and emergency crews and stands ready to act if circumstances deteriorate.

"The safety and security of every incarcerated individual, as well as our staff, remains a top priority," Balaam said. "We will continue to evaluate conditions and respond accordingly."

The cause of the fire remained under investigation. Fire officials have not yet released details on any injuries or the extent of structural damage beyond the mayor's acknowledgment that some structures had already burned.