Washington Governor declares statewide emergency and bans most outdoor burning amid extreme wildfire risk

Washington Governor Bob Ferguson announced a statewide emergency on Saturday, citing prolonged drought, unusually high temperatures, strong winds and a surge in wildfires. The proclamation also imposes a ban on most outdoor and agricultural burning until the end of September.

The ban covers yard debris burning, trash disposal, land clearing, weed abatement, bonfires and campfires that are not contained in approved fire rings or pits. Exceptions include liquid- or gas-fueled stoves or grills used on non-flammable surfaces at least five feet from vegetation, permitted agricultural or silvicultural burns, and campfires in approved rings on private property or designated parks.

"Our record-setting drought and high winds are creating dangerous conditions across the state," Ferguson said in a statement. "I am declaring an emergency to help prevent loss of life and property damage."

The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Alert describing an "extremely dangerous" wildfire weather situation for eastern Washington. State officials report more than 1,000 fires have burned about 425,000 acres this year, the highest total since 2021, with over 200,000 acres currently burning in 12 large fires.

The emergency proclamation enables Washington to request additional firefighting resources through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact and authorizes further National Guard activations. Governor Ferguson activated 110 National Guard members on July 31, supplementing 27 helicopter crew members already deployed.

The Washington State Fire Marshal's Office has mobilized 13 task forces and three strike teams to combat major fires, including the Sinlahekin, Bradeen Hill, Kaiser Canyon and Little Giant fires. Officials urged residents to avoid actions that could ignite dry vegetation, check vehicles for fire hazards such as dragging trailer chains, and properly extinguish smoking materials.