Wildfires Force Evacuations and Destroy Hundreds of Structures in Spokane, Washington
Fast-moving wildfires in Spokane, Washington, have led to the evacuation of approximately 60,000 residents and the destruction of at least 600 homes, businesses, and other structures. The fires, fueled by strong winds and exceptionally dry conditions, erupted in three separate locations around the city. The National Weather Service had issued warnings for 'extremely critical fire weather conditions' prior to the outbreak. As of Sunday, August 2, 2026, the fires remained at zero percent containment, although weather conditions had slightly improved. Washington Governor Bob Ferguson declared a state of emergency, citing the state's fourth consecutive year of drought as a contributing factor to the severity of the wildfires.