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Wildfires have ravaged the US city of Spokane in eastern Washington state, reducing hundreds of structures to cinders and forcing the evacuation of approximately 60,000 residents. Authorities issued the highest-level alert, "Go Now," as firefighters battled the massive blazes, which remained zero-percent contained late Sunday.

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Just driving around looking at the homes -- it’s just one of the most heartbreaking things I’ve ever seen in my life.

The National Weather Service had warned of "extremely critical fire weather conditions" due to strong winds and extreme dryness in the region. Videos from Sunday showed numerous homes burned to the ground, with only fireplaces and foundations remaining, while some nearby houses were spared. Spokane resident Geoff Beadles described the scene as "one of the most heartbreaking things I’ve ever seen in my life."

Mayor Lisa Brown stated that hundreds of homes and structures have been lost, and officials are still assessing the potential for casualties. "To the people who are suffering right now in our region from either loss or uncertainty... our hearts go out to you. We are here for you for the long term," she told those affected. While more favorable weather was forecast for Monday, temperatures were expected to rise later in the week, and smoke accumulation threatened "very unhealthy" air quality.

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Hundreds of homes and structures have been lost. We are still assessing the potential for lives to be lost.

Washington Governor Bob Ferguson declared a state of emergency, noting that the state is enduring its fourth consecutive year of drought. He attributed the conditions conducive to destructive wildfires to climate change. Sheriff John Nowels reported that no deaths or injuries had been confirmed so far.

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To the people who are suffering right now in our region from either loss or uncertainty... our hearts go out to you. We are here for you for the long term.