Washington State Wildfires Destroy 700 Structures, Force 65,000 to Evacuate
Wildfires in Spokane, Washington, have destroyed at least 700 structures and forced the evacuation of 65,000 people. The Spokane Complex Fire, comprising the Old Trails, Fairview, and Autumn Lane fires, has burned over 8,000 acres and remains uncontained. Spokane Mayor Lisa Brown described the fires as the worst natural disaster the region has faced. The fires were exacerbated by a historic weather event, with strong winds and dry conditions fueling the flames. Governor Bob Ferguson declared a statewide emergency and requested federal assistance. The fires have also caused power outages affecting nearly 12,000 utility customers in Spokane.