A rapidly spreading wildfire in the US state of Nevada has forced about 42,000 people to evacuate, while another 45,000 residents have been placed under evacuation warnings.
The Hawk Fire, which started near Hawk Meadow Trail close to Reno on Saturday, has burned more than 4,450 hectares (10,500 acres). Officials say the fire was human-caused and intensified rapidly because of strong winds, low humidity and dry vegetation.
At least six people have been injured, while structures have already been destroyed by the blaze. Nearly 10,000 homes and businesses in Washoe County were also without electricity on Sunday.
Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo declared a state of emergency in Washoe County and activated the Nevada National Guard. More than 400 personnel from local, state and federal agencies are fighting the fire using ground crews and aircraft.
Reno Mayor Hillary Schieve urged residents ordered to evacuate not to delay, warning that protecting lives was more important than property.
Emergency authorities opened an evacuation centre at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center, although evacuees were instructed to take pets to separate animal shelters. Some Reno casinos have also offered discounted hotel rooms to people displaced by the wildfire.
Despite the emergency, commercial flights at Reno-Tahoe International Airport remained unaffected as of Sunday.
Officials continue to warn residents in affected areas to follow evacuation orders and remain away until authorities declare it safe to return.
.jpeg)
.jpeg "Sunayen kofofin aljanna guda takwas 8")
0 Comment about the Post: