RENO, Nev. — The fast-moving Hawk Fire continues to threaten communities across Washoe County after burning more than 15,000 acres and forcing tens of thousands of people from their homes. The wildfire has also triggered evacuation warnings across the state line in Sierra County, California.

The Hawk Fire started Saturday, Aug. 22, near Hawk Meadow Trail northwest of Reno. Strong winds, low humidity and dry vegetation helped the fire spread quickly through the Peavine Peak area. Officials say the fire was human-caused, although investigators have not determined whether it started accidentally or intentionally.

By late Sunday, Aug. 23, officials reported the fire had burned about 15,051 acres. Crews continued working to protect homes, businesses and infrastructure as changing winds created difficult conditions.

Six People Injured in Hawk Fire

At least six people have suffered injuries since the fire began. Three civilians and three first responders were among those injured. Officials have also confirmed that the fire destroyed homes, although authorities have not released a final number of damaged or destroyed structures.

Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo declared a state of emergency in Washoe County on Saturday as evacuation areas expanded. The declaration allows state agencies to provide additional resources through the Nevada Emergency Operations Center. National Guard personnel and aircraft are also supporting the response.

Firefighters from Nevada and California have joined the effort. Crews are using aircraft, fire engines and bulldozers to build and strengthen containment lines around threatened communities.

Sierra County Residents Warned to Prepare

The fire has also created concern in neighboring California. The Sierra County Sheriff’s Office issued evacuation warnings for zones E024 and E061. Those areas include the Verdi and Long Valley communities in eastern Sierra County.

Residents under an evacuation warning should prepare to leave quickly if officials upgrade the warning to an evacuation order.

Highway 395 has also faced major disruptions. Authorities closed portions of the highway in Washoe County as firefighters worked near the busy transportation corridor.

Thousands Forced From Their Homes

Approximately 42,000 residents were ordered to evacuate as the Hawk Fire moved closer to populated areas. Another roughly 45,000 people were placed under evacuation warnings, making this one of Northern Nevada’s largest evacuation operations in recent years.

The Reno-Sparks Convention Center is serving as an evacuation shelter. Officials have also established locations for residents who need temporary shelter for small and large animals.

Washoe County schools were closed Monday, Aug. 24, while emergency crews continued responding to the fire. Power outages have also affected thousands of customers across Northern Nevada.

Conditions remain dangerous as firefighters work to keep the Hawk Fire away from additional neighborhoods. Authorities continue to urge residents to follow evacuation instructions and avoid closed areas so emergency crews can move safely.