SUBMITTED NEWS RELEASE
The Washoe Fire is 50-percent contained as of 4 a.m. this morning and more than 3,800 acres have burned since the blaze broke out yesterday shortly after noon. One hundred and fifty firefighters and 150 law enforcement officers spent the evening and early morning hours fighting the fire, they will be joined by more than 400 firefighters today working to contain the blaze.
Additionally, officials have confirmed one fatality within the fire area, though it has not been confirmed whether or not the fatality is a direct result of the fire. Officials will not release identity on the fatality until the Medical Examiner’s office has completed its examination today. More than 20 structures have burned as a result of the blaze.
Fire and emergency personal will be holding a 9 a.m. press conference this morning with an update on the Washoe Fire at Depoali Middle School in South Reno.
Commuters should be advised that an alternate route around Lake Tahoe is not advised at this time. In addition to weather concerns, State Route 28 around the lake is currently closed as crews work on a gas leak unrelated to the fire.
Evacuations were lifted in the following areas:
- Callahan Ranch Road
- Fawn Lane
- Galena Country Estates
- Montreux
- Mount Rose area from Killington to Thomas Creek
- St. James Village
Residents returning to those areas are advised to take care as power lines may still be down and fire and law enforcement crews continue to work in those areas.
Citizens in need of resources or wishing to donate may contact the Red Cross at 775.856.1000. Citizens can call 211 or 775.337.5800 for evacuation information.
For official information regarding the fire, citizens are encouraged to visit www.washoecounty.us and follow @washoesheriff and @washoecounty, on Twitter for the latest official information.
