The out-of-control "Hook" wildfire in the US state of Nevada has forced nearly 90,000 people to leave their homes or prepare to evacuate as the flames approach the city of Reno and surrounding residential areas.
The Hook Fire forces nearly 90,000 people to evacuate their homes in Nevada, USA
Authorities reported that 42,000 people received immediate evacuation orders, while another 45,000 were told to be ready to leave at any time, as the fire continued to spread.
The fire spread across more than 15,000 acres (approximately 6,000 hectares), reaching the outskirts of Reno and the area surrounding the University of Nevada. It also destroyed several mountain homes and injured at least six people, including three firefighters and paramedics.
Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo declared a state of emergency in Washoe County and called in National Guard troops to assist with firefighting operations and securing evacuated areas.
Firefighters are struggling to contain the blaze due to strong, shifting winds, low humidity, and dry vegetation. Officials said the fire was caused by human activity, and investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause.
