Nevada wildfire forces evacuation of about 42,000 near Reno

RENO, Nev. — A fast-moving wildfire in northwestern Nevada has prompted evacuation orders for roughly 42,000 people, officials said Sunday. The blaze, dubbed the Hawk fire, has been driven toward residential areas by strong winds and remains out of containment. At a Sunday press briefing, authorities said the evacuation zone has been expanded to include areas around the University of Nevada campus. Residents among the roughly 45,000 people asked to leave were told to prepare to stay away from their homes for several days. The fire has burned through about 53 square kilometers and destroyed or rendered unusable numerous homes and structures. Firefighters have struggled to contain the flames as shifting winds continue to push the fire in new directions. Officials urged drivers to stay out of the area so emergency crews can reach the scene without obstruction.