Bishop Manogue has returned to session after three days of closure due to the Davis Fire. The fire, which began last Saturday and whose cause is still unknown, is now 76% contained after burning around 6,000 acres.
School was first canceled on Monday, 9/9, after a state of emergency was declared by Governor Lombardo. Closure continued through Wednesday, 9/11, due to concerns about its spread towards the school. As of Thursday, 9/12, school has returned with a flexible attendance policy, with the option for virtual learning for those still affected. The Incline Village public schools remained closed through Thursday, and the South Reno public schools remained closed through Friday.
Despite favorable weather, the fire itself is still a concern. Evacuation notices are still in place for the area south of Galena Creek, and the Montreux, Galena Creek, and St. James neighborhoods still face an evacuation warning. However, thanks to the efforts of local firefighting forces and the Nevada National Guard, which was called in on Monday, the fire has not spread as far as models predicted.
Bishop Manogue student Misha Sekhon was one of those affected by the fire. She reflects on her experience, saying, “A week later, I am still reminded of how no amount of warning can prepare you for the unknown.” Many people still face the unknown, as 14 structures, including 11 houses and a church, were burned. It remains to be seen how this loss will impact Reno moving forwards.
Despite the chaos of the past week, firefighters are optimistic, pointing towards cooler temperatures and the possibility of rain later this week. Though the fire is not yet out, things are looking up.