A fast-moving wildfire, dubbed the Spokane Complex, exploded across Washington state overnight, forcing thousands of residents to flee their homes as flames consumed parched terrain amid a dangerous heat wave. The complex comprises three active blazes: the Old Trails Fire, which has devoured 3,509 acres and 600 structures; the Fairview Fire, which has spread across 981 acres; and the Autumn Lane Fire, which has consumed 900 acres.
Officials have declared a state of emergency, issuing a Level 3 evacuation order—the highest level—for several areas, urging residents to leave immediately due to life-threatening conditions. The Old Trails Fire began just before noon on Saturday near Old Trails Rd and Euclid Rd on the West Plains. Driven by powerful winds and extreme temperatures, it rapidly spread, crossing the Spokane River and moving toward populated neighborhoods within hours.
Residents described the terrifying speed at which the fire advanced, with many forced to grab essential documents, pets, and whatever possessions they could carry. Dmitriy Gorelov, a local resident, noted how quickly the situation escalated from a distant smoke plume to immediate evacuation orders, with police arriving at his door to ensure his departure.
"It’s a real strong wind starting up, and it was so quick - fires cover our area," Gorelov told CNN affiliate KREM. "They just said, 'Yeah, you need to leave.' So that was the last time we were in the house."
Helicopters dropped water onto the inferno, while ground crews worked to build containment lines. However, strong winds repeatedly shifted the fire's direction, making containment efforts increasingly difficult. By Sunday morning, the Old Trails Fire remained a significant threat.
The fire has also prompted evacuations at Spokane's veterans' hospital, water reclamation facility, and waste-to-energy plant. A shelter has been established at a local community college for displaced residents, though thousands of homes and structures remain without power.
This wildfire occurs as Washington faces a broader fire crisis, attributed to a warming climate compounding drought, low snowpack, and dry, windy conditions. This trend has led to some of the most destructive fires on record in recent years.
Washington Governor Bob Ferguson declared a statewide emergency on Saturday, allowing for the deployment of additional resources to combat the blazes and protect communities. The Washington National Guard has deployed units to Spokane County to assist with evacuation and traffic control. Governor Ferguson is scheduled to visit Spokane to meet with responders and monitor the emergency response. Officials continue to warn residents to remain vigilant due to the ongoing extreme heat and potential for further danger.
