As temperatures soar above 110 degrees Fahrenheit, wildfires continue to plague the western United States.
Nevada and nearby Southwestern states are battling spreading wildfires, posing a threat to local infrastructure and communities.
Procter R. Hug High School in Nevada is in danger as a massive fire near Reno inches closer to the school grounds.
Local authorities are working overnight to combat the blaze, urging residents to steer clear of the area. Problems arose when a swarm of onlookers caused multiple car accidents near the school.
The Sparks Fire Department emphasized the importance of adapting to Nevada’s environment, characterized by wildfires. They advised residents to create defensible spaces by altering their surroundings.
To make your home safer, follow the three R’s landscaping approach: Remove, Reduce, and Replace. Clear away dead or flammable vegetation, trim or mow overgrown plants, and maintain adequate spacing between vegetation to prevent continuous fuel layers.
A recent wildfire in California prompted the evacuation of San Joaquin County residents, with the closure of Interstate 580 in both directions until the blaze was contained by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.
Though the exact causes remain unknown, the combination of hot, dry weather, and strong winds fueled the fire.
States like Arizona, New Mexico, and Colorado have been placed under red-flag warnings, indicating a high risk of wildfire ignition.
In May, the National Weather Service issued a warning about the potential for “extreme fire behavior” this summer due to the prevailing weather conditions.