Washington wildfires scorch Spokane, prompting evacuations and federal aid request
More than 7,000 acres have burned in three Spokane-area wildfires, destroying roughly 700 structures and displacing about 65,000 residents, while cooler temperatures offer limited relief.
Cooler temperatures forecast for the Spokane region may aid firefighters battling three major wildfires that have consumed over 7,000 acres, destroyed an estimated 700 structures and forced the evacuation of roughly 65,000 people. The blazes, driven by high winds and dry conditions, remain uncontained, with no immediate reports of fatalities or injuries.
Spokane Mayor Lisa Brown told NPR that nearly half of the city’s neighborhoods have been evacuated or are at risk as the fire, covering about 12 square miles, continues to spread. "A very large geography has been labeled Level 3, which means get out immediately," she said, adding that the shifting winds have hampered containment efforts.
The state's Department of Natural Resources identified the Old Trails Fire as the largest, burning more than 3,600 acres northwest of the city, while the Autumn Lane and Fairview fires also threaten the area. Governor Bob Ferguson, speaking at a news conference, said the state has requested an emergency federal declaration and noted discussions with the president and the Department of Homeland Security.
Local residents described the devastation: a 54-year-old evacuee staying at a Red Cross shelter expressed uncertainty about her apartment, and another couple reported losing their home entirely. Hundreds, including many seniors, are currently housed at the downtown Spokane Convention Center shelter.
Senator Maria Cantwell attributed the fires to a historic weather event linked to El Niño-driven heat and dryness. Officials emphasized ongoing coordination across municipal, state and federal agencies to address the crisis.