Wildfires in Eastern Washington have destroyed at least 600 homes, businesses and other structures, forcing 60,000 people to evacuate from the Spokane area as the blazes spread across the region.
About 5,000 homes are among those evacuated. No injuries or fatalities have been confirmed. Firefighters are battling three active wildfires working to contain the blazes.
Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson said he spoke with President Trump about the devastation. Trump expressed support for state and local leaders coordinating the emergency response.
Dry and breezy conditions persist across Eastern Washington, fueling the fires and complicating containment efforts.
Local authorities in Spokane have focused resources on securing evacuated zones and providing shelter for displaced residents.
The fires broke out during a period of high temperatures and low humidity, conditions that have historically worsened wildfire activity in the Western United States. Emergency services remain on high alert.
State agencies are assessing the full scope of the damage, which includes residential and commercial properties. The long-term economic impact on Spokane and surrounding communities remains a concern for state leadership.
