Reno wildfire burns 20 homes, closes 90 schools

Reno wildfire burns 20 homes, closes 90 schools

RENO, Nev. (AP) — Officials say a wind-whipped wildfire in Reno has destroyed 20 homes, injured several people and forced evacuations.

Reno Fire Chief Michael Hernandez tells the Reno Gazette-Journal that the 400-acre blaze is burning in steep canyons and deep ravines, and “is not going to be out any time soon.”

Ninety schools were closed to clear the roads of school traffic and make way for emergency workers. About 125 crew members are fighting the fire.

Two high schools are being used as shelters for hundreds of families who fled their homes after the fire started overnight.

Authorities say one person suffered a cardiac arrest and several others suffered smoke inhalation.

High winds are expected until about midnight, with no rain or snow in the forecast.

Firefighters don’t know what caused it.