Thousands Ordered to Evacuate as Fast-Moving Wildfire Tears Through Spokane County

Thousands of residents have been forced to evacuate their homes after a fast-moving wildfire swept across Spokane County in eastern Washington, destroying homes, threatening neighborhoods and prompting state authorities to declare an emergency as firefighters struggled to contain the rapidly expanding blaze.

The fire, known as the Old Trails Fire, ignited on Saturday in brush and grassland northwest of the city of Spokane. Driven by powerful winds, scorching temperatures and extremely dry vegetation, the flames spread with alarming speed, eventually jumping the Spokane River and advancing into residential areas. By Saturday evening, the wildfire had burned roughly four square miles (about 10 square kilometres), with officials reporting zero containment as dangerous weather conditions continued to fuel its growth.

Authorities issued Level 3 “Go Now” evacuation orders for thousands of residents in northwestern Spokane and surrounding communities, urging people to leave immediately as the fire threatened homes and businesses. Heavy traffic clogged evacuation routes as families fled with whatever belongings they could carry, while emergency shelters were opened for displaced residents.

Fire officials confirmed that multiple homes and other structures had been destroyed, although an exact damage assessment was still underway. Dramatic images from the scene showed towering flames racing through neighborhoods, thick smoke blanketing the skyline, and firefighters working around the clock to protect homes from advancing fire fronts.

In response to the escalating crisis, Washington Governor Bob Ferguson declared a state of emergency, enabling additional resources to be deployed. The Washington National Guard was activated to support firefighting and emergency operations, while utility company Avista implemented public safety power shutoffs in parts of the affected area to reduce the risk of new fires.

The National Weather Service had earlier issued a rare “Particularly Dangerous Situation” Red Flag Warning for eastern Washington, citing strong winds, low humidity and exceptionally high temperatures, conditions that significantly increase the likelihood of explosive wildfire growth. Officials warned that the weather could continue to hamper firefighting efforts over the coming days.

Investigators have not yet determined what caused the Old Trails Fire. Fire crews from across Washington, assisted by aerial firefighting resources, remain focused on protecting lives and structures while working to establish containment lines around the blaze. Authorities have urged residents to obey evacuation orders and monitor official updates, warning that conditions could change rapidly as the wildfire continues to spread.