A fast-moving wildfire has reached the outskirts of Reno, Nevada, prompting evacuation orders for tens of thousands of residents as firefighters battle difficult conditions and strong winds.

Around 42,000 people have been ordered to leave their homes immediately, while another 45,000 residents have been told to prepare for a possible evacuation as the fire continues to spread.

Officials said six people have been injured, including three emergency responders involved in firefighting operations.

Thousands of Acres Already Burned

The wildfire was first reported at around 11:15 a.m. local time on Saturday and has rapidly expanded across dry terrain surrounding Reno.

According to the Washoe emergency information centre, approximately 15,000 acres — equivalent to about 23 square miles — had burned by Sunday lunchtime.

Officials said that no section of the fire perimeter had been contained at that point.

Strong winds, dry vegetation and unpredictable weather have made firefighting efforts particularly challenging and contributed to the rapid growth of the blaze.

13,700 Homes Inside Evacuation Zone

Local emergency officials said approximately 13,700 homes are located within the evacuation area.

Two emergency shelters have been established to accommodate residents forced to leave their homes.

Authorities have urged people in affected areas to follow evacuation instructions and remain prepared for rapidly changing conditions.

Nevada Declares State of Emergency

Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo has declared a state of emergency in Washoe County as the wildfire continues to threaten communities around Reno.

The governor has also ordered the National Guard to assist with firefighting and law enforcement operations.

"This is an active and rapidly evolving situation," Lombardo said, urging residents in threatened areas to remain alert and follow instructions from local authorities.

Homes Reportedly Damaged

Local officials have described the wildfire as extremely fast-moving, with the combination of dry desert vegetation and strong winds helping it spread quickly.

Lucia Starbuck, a reporter with KUNR Public Radio, described the fire as having grown dramatically over the weekend.

She said the blaze was moving through dry desert hills located close to residential neighbourhoods, with some homes reportedly already burned.

The exact number of structures damaged or destroyed was not immediately known.

Human-Caused Fire Under Investigation

Local authorities have said the wildfire was caused by human activity. An investigation into the circumstances surrounding its ignition is underway.

With the fire still spreading and containment yet to be established, emergency crews are continuing firefighting and evacuation operations while authorities monitor conditions across the affected areas.