As of 8:30 p.m. the Skinner fire in Pleasant Valley is estimated to have burned at least 1,200 acres and is 10 percent contained, said Reno Fire Spokesman Steve Frady.
Frady said about 350 personnel from surrouding fire agencies are on hand and crews will stay at the scene throughout the night.
Several homes were saved from the flames which were sparked by high winds that caused powerlines to arc.
Frady said aerial assessment of the scene tomorrow will give a better idea of containment and acreage.
Homeowner have been allowed back onto their properties.