State of Emergency Declared as Nevada Fire Burns 2,000 Acres
Baku, November 20 (AZERTAC). Nevada Gov. Brian Sandoval declared a state of emergency Friday as a fast-moving fire in Reno scorched more than 2,000 acres, destroyed at least 20 homes and prompted the evacuation of thousands of people.
The blaze broke out just after midnight in Toiyabe National Forest near Caughlin, in southwestern Reno, and was fanned by powerful winds. One death has been confirmed; a man who died of a cardiac arrest during the evacuation, KTVN-TV reported. Sixteen other people have been admitted to area hospitals, mostly with smoke inhalation problems, the station said.
Reno Fire Chief Michael Hernandez said 25 homes were damaged or destroyed but firefighters have saved about 4,000 houses.
At least 9,500 residents in Caughlin and the surrounding areas were asked to voluntarily evacuate, KTVN-TV reported. Two area high schools have set up temporary shelters and local hotels are offering special rates for displaced people.
Hernandez said 450 firefighters are battling the erratic blaze, whose cause is still unknown, and he has requested resources from neighboring California.
Both the city of Reno and Gov. Sandoval declared a state of emergency Friday morning, clearing the way for federal assistance. Reno`s fire department said it might call for resources from other states.
Senator Harry Reid (D-Nev.) said he was "deeply saddened by the devastating fires in Reno that have displaced families and destroyed homes. My thoughts are with all the families that have been affected by this terrible disaster," he said.
Karl Walquist at NV Energy said about 1,000 customers were without power and restoration could take a while.
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