Wildfires in eastern Washington have destroyed an estimated 600 structures and prompted the evacuation of 5,000 homes, with containment efforts challenged by high winds and difficult terrain. The blazes have burned more than 8.2 square miles around Spokane, Washington's second-largest city.
No fatalities have been reported in connection with the Spokane-area fires. However, authorities are contending with challenging weather conditions, including expected wind gusts of 35 to 45 mph (56 to 72 kph) on Sunday. These winds, combined with the area's steep canyons, are expected to exacerbate the fire's spread.
"We have weather working against us, and we have terrain working against us," said Benjamin Cossel, public information officer for the federal response team deployed to assist. Cossel explained that as temperatures rise during the day, cooler air near the ground dissipates, allowing stronger winds to move through the canyons, pushing the fires uphill and outward.
Three distinct fires—the Old Trails Fire, the Fairview Fire, and the Meadowview Fire—are affecting the Spokane region. In response to the escalating situation, Washington Governor Bob Ferguson declared a state of emergency on Saturday. The National Weather Service also issued a red flag warning, indicating a "particularly dangerous situation" for the area.
State agencies have issued air quality advisories due to the smoke. A temporary shelter has been established at Spokane's main convention center for displaced residents.