Wildfires Destroy Hundreds of Buildings, Displace Thousands in Washington State

Why it matters locally: The proximity of the Washington state wildfires raises concerns for Oregonians, particularly regarding potential smoke impacts across the Columbia River Gorge and the strain on regional firefighting resources. Oregon agencies, including Portland Fire & Rescue and Clackamas Fire District #1, regularly collaborate on wildfire response in the Pacific Northwest.

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Firefighters are battling a series of wildfires in Washington state. These fires started over the weekend and continue to burn in Spokane and its surrounding areas, the state's second-largest city. The fires have destroyed hundreds of buildings. They have also displaced tens of thousands of people. Stephanie Sy reported on the situation.