Reno, Nevada – A rapidly spreading wildfire dubbed the “Sparks Ridge Fire” forced the evacuation of more than 7,000 residents from the northern suburbs of Reno on Thursday evening. Fueled by high winds and dry brush, the blaze burned over 4,200 acres within six hours, prompting a state of emergency declaration by Governor Joe Lombardo. Evacuation orders covered the neighborhoods of Caughlin Ranch, Galena Creek, and parts of the foothills. Fire crews from the Nevada Division of Forestry, assisted by federal resources, are battling the flames while setting up shelters at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center. Officials warn that the fire could threaten additional communities if weather conditions worsen.

