Wildfire prompts mass evacuation orders in Spokane
Thousands of residents in Spokane, US, have been ordered to evacuate as a fast-moving wildfire approaches the city. Governor Bob Ferguson declared an emergency in Washington state, citing hazardous conditions caused by drought and high winds. Authorities have issued the highest-level evacuation alerts, and emergency shelters have been set up for those affected. Officials warn that this is one of the worst fire seasons on record for the region.
What we know
- A wildfire named the Old Trails fire jumped the Spokane River and entered the city, prompting evacuation orders for thousands.
- More than 200,000 acres are burning across Washington state during a record fourth consecutive year of drought.
- Governor Bob Ferguson announced a ban on most outdoor and agricultural burning through the end of September.
- Emergency shelters have been established at the Spokane Convention Centre for evacuees.
- The Washington National Guard is mobilising units to assist, and the National Weather Service declared a “particularly dangerous situation” Red Flag Alert for Eastern Washington.
