US firefighters have reported that the Hawk Fire, a large wildfire threatening Reno, Nevada, is now approximately 27% contained. The blaze, which began on Saturday and has spread over 15,000 acres by Monday, prompted evacuation orders for around 23,000 people. Although some residents have been allowed to return to their homes, tens of thousands more are on standby to evacuate at a moment's notice. Officials fear that strong winds could fan the flames for another two days, potentially affecting more homes. The fire has destroyed 32 homes and damaged six others, with seven people injured, including four civilians and three firefighters who sustained minor burns. Firefighting efforts have involved large air tankers and helicopters dropping water and fire retardants over the affected area. The fire is thought to be of human origin, but the cause remains under investigation. Climate scientists attribute the warm, dry conditions that aid the rapid spread of wildfires to human-induced climate change. Nevada's Governor Joe Lombardo has declared a state of emergency and called in the National Guard to assist with firefighting and law enforcement efforts. International assistance has also been provided by fire crews from Australia, New Zealand, and 15 US states. The University of Nevada in Reno, which is located near the "get set" warning area, has continued regular operations but is monitoring the situation closely. Some teaching staff have independently decided to cancel classes due to the fire's proximity to the campus. Local resident Justin Davis, who lives on Peavine Mountain near Reno, used a water truck to save his home when the fire approached on Saturday, destroying four of his vehicles. The blaze has been named the Hawk Fire because it was first reported near the Hawk Meadow Trail, west of Reno. With a population of around 280,000 people, Reno is located close to the state boundary with California and is prone to wildfires, which are becoming more severe according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. If you're in the affected area, share your story safely.