Firefighters Work 16-Hour Shifts to Contain Spokane Complex Fire

Hundreds of firefighters are operating 16-hour shifts as they try to contain the Spokane Complex Fire ahead of forecasted hotter, drier weather. The blaze, which ignited on Saturday, has damaged or destroyed nearly 850 structures and forced about 67,000 residents to evacuate.

The fire has burned 10,546 acres and is composed of three separate incidents: the Old Trails and Autumn Lane fires, each 13% contained, and the Fairview Fire, 5% contained, according to officials. Temperatures are expected to rise into the upper 90s later this week with no rain expected.

"If our lines hold through the weekend, I think we’re going to be on the path to not having this fire move anymore," said Tom Stokesberry, spokesman for the California Interagency Incident Management Team coordinating the response.

More than 1,500 firefighters from two dozen states, including elite Hotshot crews, are engaged in a "search and destroy" effort to suppress emerging hotspots. Crews are sleeping only five to seven hours per night and will remain on deployment for about two weeks before being rotated.

"It’s trying on them, but they’re here for the long haul," Stokesberry added.

Michael Kelly, a spokesperson for the Washington State Department of Natural Resources, said the loss of over 800 structures makes the fire one of the most destructive in state history.

Aerial operations were briefly halted after 40 unauthorized drones entered restricted airspace, prompting fire crews to land until the airspace was cleared. No further drone incursions have been reported since Monday.

Authorities have arrested Aaron Farinacci, 37, on first-degree arson charges for allegedly starting the Old Trails Fire. Investigators say other fires in the complex may have been caused by human activity, though intent remains under investigation.

The incident continues to strain resources, and additional support is expected to arrive over the weekend.