Hawk Fire explodes on California border as evacuation warnings issued

A fast-moving wildfire near the Tahoe region has exploded to roughly 2,500 acres, with evacuation warnings now in effect for California communities near the Nevada border.

The Hawk Fire was estimated at 2,500 acres as of 3 p.m. Saturday, according to fire crews.

The blaze is spreading rapidly and could already be larger.

The fire erupted northeast of Verdi in Washoe County, Nevada, about 30 to 40 miles north of the Lake Tahoe area.

High winds and low humidity have helped the flames race across the landscape.

Containment remains at 0%.

Now California communities are on alert.

The Sierra County Sheriff’s Office issued a “Get Set” evacuation warning for Zones E024 and E061, covering the Verdi and Long Valley areas along the California-Nevada border.

Residents in those areas are being told to prepare to evacuate as the fire continues to grow.

Across the border in Nevada, the threat has already triggered mandatory “Go Now” evacuation orders north of Verdi and northwest of Somersett.

With the fire spreading rapidly and the Tahoe region nearby, residents along the California-Nevada border are being urged to stay alert and be ready to leave.

Download The California Post App, follow us on social, and subscribe to our newsletters