Power shutoffs and federal response mobilize across Spokane fire zone
Federal responders deployed and power shutoffs activated as emergency infrastructure measures escalate.
Event / Disaster
Spokane Wildfire Crisis
Major wildfire in Spokane, Washington forces mass evacuation. The Old Trails Fire started Saturday and rapidly spread across 8.2 square miles, destroying approximately 600 structures. Multiple fires burn simultaneously in the region with challenging terrain and extreme weather hampering containment efforts.
3 reported locations
Daily activity
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2026-08-15 to 2026-11-12 · UTC publication dates
Coverage begins 3 Aug, 03:52 UTC
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What happened
Federal response team from California deployed to Spokane fire
A federal response team from California was called in on Saturday night to assist with managing the Spokane-area wildfire. The team highlighted challenging terrain conditions including steep canyons and slopes that create turbulent wind scenarios accelerating fire spread.
Multiple fires burn simultaneously in Spokane region
In addition to the Old Trails Fire, the Fairview Fire and the Meadowview Fire were burning in the Spokane area. The state issued air quality warnings due to smoke plumes billowing over the region from all active fires.
Washington Governor declares state of emergency due to record wildfires
Governor Bob Ferguson declared a state of emergency on Saturday after unusually high temperatures and high winds exacerbated record wildfires across Washington state. The declaration came as multiple fires burned simultaneously in the Spokane region.
National Weather Service issues red flag alert for eastern Washington
The National Weather Service issued a 'particularly dangerous situation' red flag alert for eastern Washington due to the combination of high temperatures, strong winds, and severe fire conditions.
Avista power company implements public safety shutoffs in Spokane fire area
Power company Avista implemented public safety shutoffs in the wildfire-affected area due to elevated fire risk, a preventive measure to reduce the risk of electrical infrastructure igniting additional fires.
Old Trails Fire burns 8.2 square miles near Spokane
The Old Trails Fire burned approximately 8.2 square miles of terrain in the Spokane area by the evening of Saturday. Firefighters had zero containment as of the evening, with wind continuing to blow and terrain conditions making suppression difficult.
Fast-moving wildfire evacuates thousands in Spokane, Washington
The Old Trails Fire started around noon on Saturday and spread rapidly north and east toward residential areas in northwest Spokane, driven by strong winds and high temperatures. The fire forced the evacuation of thousands of people, with cars lining roads as residents fled their homes.
Approximately 600 structures destroyed in Spokane-area wildfires
Some 600 homes, businesses and other buildings have been destroyed since the Old Trails Fire started. Officials initially could not provide a solid count of structural losses, but the figure grew to approximately 600 structures destroyed in the Spokane area.
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2 alternative perspectives
Washington Governor Declares Emergency as Red Flag Alert Issued
Governor declares emergency; National Weather Service issues red flag alert for eastern Washington.
Rapid Wildfire Destroys Hundreds of Structures in Spokane
Spokane wildfires destroyed 600 structures and burned 8.2 square miles, evacuating thousands.