Mass Evacuations Ordered for Reno as Wildfire Rides Winds

Residents in the U.S. state of Nevada have been told to leave their homes as a wildfire surged toward the city of Reno. The fire has spread into the outskirts of the town, and video footage from locals shows flames licking the air and a blanket of smoke visible from several blocks away.

Officials say the fire is spreading more rapidly than expected because of strong, unpredictable wind conditions. The volatile weather is making it difficult for firefighters to control the blaze and divert it away from populated areas.

Six people are reported injured by authorities. They have boarded at neighboring shelters as the emergency response continues toward containment. Authorities continue to urge residents to evacuate and to stay tuned for updates.