Wildfires Prompt Evacuations in Eastern Washington

Why it matters locally: The wildfires are directly impacting residents in Eastern Washington, with thousands facing evacuation orders and hundreds of homes already destroyed, including in Spokane County.

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SPOKANE, Wash. — Fast-moving wildfires in eastern Washington have prompted evacuation orders for thousands of residents and destroyed numerous homes. Officials reported one fire, the Spokane Complex Fire, could become the most destructive in Washington's history. Authorities issued evacuation orders for residents in northwest Spokane as the Old Trails Fire continued to burn. Firefighters have worked to hold fire lines against the Autumn Lane Fire, which also necessitated evacuations. More than 60,000 people have faced evacuation orders due to the fires. Reports indicate hundreds of homes have burned across the affected areas. Fire crews remain on scene, actively battling the blazes and working to protect structures. The fires have progressed rapidly, driven by conditions in the region.