Washington Wildfires Force Thousands to Evacuate as Emergency Declared

Wildfires are rapidly approaching the city of Spokane in the U.S. state of Washington, forcing thousands of residents to evacuate. The state has declared an emergency, citing one of the worst wildfire seasons on record, compounded by a statewide drought now in its fourth consecutive year.

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Record-breaking drought and high winds have created dangerous conditions across the state.

More than 80,900 hectares have already burned across Washington. Record-breaking drought conditions and strong winds have created dangerous situations statewide, according to Governor Bob Ferguson. He stated that most open burning and agricultural burning are prohibited until the end of September.

The Old Trails fire, in particular, crossed the Spokane River on Saturday afternoon and began spreading toward the city. "This year has already been one of the most challenging wildfire seasons on record, and we are only in August," said Public Lands Commissioner Dave Upthegrove. Authorities issued the highest level of evacuation warnings, ordering residents to leave their homes immediately.

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This year has already been one of the most challenging wildfire seasons on record, and we are only in August.

The evacuation orders cover a large area north of Spokane, affecting thousands of residents within the city limits. By 8:20 p.m. local time, the fire had spread to cover over 1,416 hectares, according to The Spokesman-Review. City officials have not reported any injuries. Emergency services have opened evacuation shelters at the Spokane Convention Center. Earlier that day, the National Weather Service issued a red flag warning for extremely dangerous conditions, describing the fire weather risk as extreme across eastern Washington.

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When the sun goes down and comes back up, we are going to be absolutely amazed.