Wildfires Prompt Urgent Evacuations in Spokane, Washington
As wildfires rage across eastern Washington, Spokane residents are facing urgent evacuation orders, impacting thousands. The Old Trails Fire, the most significant of the blazes, has already consumed over 3,500 acres, threatening the safety and homes of many.
Old Trails Fire Poses the Greatest Threat
Three large fires, including the Old Trails, Fairview, and Autumn Lane fires, have erupted in the Spokane area, driven by strong winds and low humidity. The Old Trails Fire, which started on Saturday, August 1, 2026, has been particularly destructive, forcing authorities to issue Level 3 evacuation orders. These orders stress, “Leave NOW! This may be your only notice.”
The Washington National Guard has been mobilized to assist local responders. A Facebook post stated, “The Washington National Guard is making 30 members available tonight to Spokane authorities for any emerging needs.”
Statewide Emergency Declared
In response to the crisis, Washington state Gov. Bob Ferguson declared a statewide wildfire emergency on Saturday. He plans to visit Spokane to assess the situation and has urged residents to heed the instructions of emergency personnel.
“If you are in the area, please continue to be vigilant and follow directions of emergency personnel,” Ferguson emphasized.
Community Impact and Shelter Efforts
With the fires threatening up to 5,000 structures, Riverside State Park has been significantly affected. Spokane’s convention center has been opened to provide shelter for displaced residents, accommodating some of the city’s 230,000 residents.
Broader State Concerns
State maps reveal that dozens of fires are currently burning across Washington. Commissioner of Public Lands Dave Upthegrove noted that firefighters are combating 10 major fires, highlighting the strain on resources.
Washington is also experiencing a record-setting drought, leading to a statewide burn ban that prohibits most outdoor fires. “Our record-setting drought and high winds are creating dangerous conditions across the state,” Ferguson stated.
Power outages have compounded the challenges, affecting nearly 11,000 customers, with over 8,000 in Spokane County alone. This year, Washington has already seen over 1,000 fires, burning approximately 425,000 acres, the most since 2021.
Upthegrove warned, “Any new spark on our tinder dry landscapes can lead to another devastating wildfire. I’m urging all Washingtonians to not be that spark.”
Northwest Public Broadcasting’s Anna King and Doug Nadvornick from Spokane Public Radio contributed to this report.
This article was originally written by www.npr.org
