Fast-growing Hawk Fire explodes to more than 8,000 acres, spurs evacuations outside Reno

About 1,000 homes were threatened, authorities said.

A fast-moving brush fire that kicked up on a hillside in Northern Nevada just outside Reno on Saturday has exploded to more than 8,000 acres, threatening hundreds of homes.

The Hawk Fire had grown to 8,020 acres, according to the National Interagency Fire Center.

Approximately 1,000 homes were threatened, and evacuations have expanded, according to the Washoe County Sheriff's Office.

"The Hawk Fire is a very dynamic incident for us as it's being driven by the winds," said Truckee Meadows Fire Chief Richard Edwards in a video posted to social media. "The wind-driven fires move very rapidly into our residential areas, creating a lot of challenges for our firefighters to save homes and protect lives."

He urged residents to pay attention to evacuation orders, leave early if directed and have a go-bag ready.

Earlier, Truckee Meadows Fire & Rescue in Washoe County, Nevada, said the fire was moving Northeast as of Saturday evening, according to a social media post.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.