Firefighters assess wildland blaze south of Reno

RENO " Firefighters are mapping and assessing a wildland blaze that burned about 1,200 acres south of Reno.

The Skinner fire broke out around 2 p.m. Tuesday on the north end of Washoe Valley.

Fanned by wind gusts to near 70 mph, it quickly spread through thick brush and grasses.

Four homes that were surrounded by flames were saved. The fire briefly closed U.S. 395 and forced the evacuation of an elementary school in nearby Pleasant Valley.

The fire is about 50 percent contained.

Forecasters say winds will be lighter Wednesday, and should allow the use of firefighting airplanes and helicopters that were grounded on Tuesday.