Spokane-area fires hold steady as crews face second day of red flag conditions
Key Points:
- Three large fires in Spokane and Stevens counties—the Old Trails, Fairview, and Autumn Lane fires—have burned a combined 10,332 acres since August 1, with causes still under investigation.
- As of Saturday, containment levels are 47% for Autumn Lane, 43% for Old Trails, and 31% for Fairview, with over 75 miles of containment lines constructed and firefighters actively extinguishing hotspots near structures.
- Fire crews remain vigilant against new fires, successfully suppressing two new incidents on Friday, while specialized equipment like the Firetrol MXOne monitor is being used to combat deep-seated heat at the Fairview Fire.
- Hazardous materials specialists are assessing areas under Level 3 evacuation orders, addressing risks such as fire-weakened trees and ash pits, and a temporary flight restriction remains in effect with no recent drone violations.
- A red flag warning continues until 11 p.m. Saturday due to low humidity and increased winds, but weather conditions are expected to improve next week following a cold front.