Wildfires in Washington Prompt Statewide Emergency Declaration

Washington Governor Bob Ferguson has declared a statewide emergency. Fast-moving wildfires are burning across the state, with a major blaze threatening Spokane. Evacuations and hazardous air quality conditions have led to a large-scale emergency response.

Old Trails Fire

The most significant fire affecting Spokane is the Old Trails Fire. According to the Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the fire began on Saturday morning northwest of Spokane. It expanded rapidly due to extreme heat, strong winds, and dry conditions. By Saturday evening, state officials estimated the fire had grown to about 4 square miles, threatening roughly 4,000 structures and prompting over 200 evacuations in northwest Spokane and nearby communities.

“We urge residents of Spokane to heed evacuation orders and to stay alert to changing conditions,” said Courtney James, spokesperson for the DNR.

Evacuations and Emergency Response

The DNR issued multiple evacuation orders, including Level 3 “Leave Now!” warnings for areas northwest of Spokane and around Airway Heights. Thousands of residents were ordered to evacuate as the fire approached homes and infrastructure.

Spokane Mayor Lisa Brown stated several facilities, including water reclamation plants, a waste-to-energy facility, and a Department of Veterans Affairs hospital, had been evacuated. The governor’s emergency declaration allows for statewide mobilization of resources, coordination of wildfire operations, emergency assistance, and deploying the National Guard if necessary.

Governor Ferguson announced a statewide burn ban through September 30. “Our record-setting drought and high winds are creating dangerous conditions,” he noted, expressing concerns over potential loss of life and property damage.

Air Quality Alert

The National Weather Service issued an Air Quality Alert for Spokane and Eastern Washington. The warning, from the Washington Department of Ecology, EPA, and Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency, affects several communities, including Spokane, Airway Heights, Cheney, and Liberty Lake.

Officials cautioned that smoke from fires in Washington, Oregon, and British Columbia could lead to unhealthy PM2.5 pollution levels. Residents were advised to limit outdoor activity, avoid strenuous exercise, and improve indoor air quality.

Statewide Wildfire Situation

The Spokane-area fire is part of a broader emergency across Washington. State officials reported more than a dozen significant fires, affecting over 250,000 acres statewide. The largest, the Kaiser Canyon Fire in northeastern Washington, had grown to approximately 134,000 acres.

“This is not normal. Throughout the state, we’re seeing fires raging,” Public Lands Commissioner Dave Upthegrove commented.

Current Efforts and Recommendations

Currently, about 4,000 firefighters are battling the blazes, aided by National Guard personnel and crews from various states. Emergency managers urge residents to follow official evacuation maps and local alerts.

As active fires, dangerous weather conditions, and air quality concerns persist, much of eastern Washington remains under heightened alert. Firefighters continue efforts to protect communities in and around Spokane.