Wildfires destroy homes in Spokane, Washington, forcing 65,000 to evacuate
Translated from German, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Three major wildfires erupted in Spokane, Washington, destroying between 700 and 1100 buildings and forcing 65,000 people to evacuate.
- The fires are considered potentially the worst natural disaster in Spokane's history, prompting the state governor to declare a state of emergency.
- Federal aid is expected as the region experiences an exceptional wildfire season, with 16 large fires burning across Washington state.
Spokane, Washington, is reeling after three major wildfires ravaged the city, leaving hundreds of homes in ruins and forcing an estimated 65,000 residents to flee.
This is one of the saddest things I have ever seen in my entire life.
Aerial views revealed scenes of devastation, with only chimneys and foundations remaining of many houses. "This is one of the saddest things I have ever seen in my entire life," said resident Geoff Beadles, who escaped the disaster zone with his fiancรฉe and two dogs.
In our hearts, we are with you. We are here for you, even in the long run.
Mayor Lisa Brown confirmed that hundreds of residential and other buildings were lost to the flames. "In our hearts, we are with you. We are here for you, even in the long run," she assured affected residents, promising assistance.
potentially the worst natural disaster in Spokane's history.
Governor Bob Ferguson declared a state of emergency, calling the event "potentially the worst natural disaster in Spokane's history." He expressed optimism that the U.S. government would provide aid, noting that President Donald Trump understands the severity of the situation. Across Washington state, authorities reported 16 large fires burning, with the fire chief describing it as an "exceptional wildfire season" in the Pacific Northwest.
It is an exceptional wildfire season in the Pacific Northwest region.
Originally published by Der Spiegel in German. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.