Spokane Wildfires Destroy Hundreds of Buildings as Thousands Evacuate
The New York Times • • nation
Key Points:
- Wildfires in Spokane County, Washington, have been described as the largest natural disaster in the area's history, destroying hundreds of structures and prompting the evacuation of thousands.
- Nearly 1,000 firefighters are battling at least three major wildfires that have scorched over 5,390 acres, with no containment reported as of Sunday afternoon.
- Authorities reported no deaths, injuries, or missing persons so far, but investigations into the cause of the fires are ongoing.
- Mayor Lisa Brown called the wildfires the worst natural disaster the region has faced, while firefighters are trying to leverage slightly improved weather conditions amid forecasts of increasing wind gusts and dry conditions.
- The National Weather Service warned that dry conditions and wind could further spread the fires into residential areas, maintaining an elevated danger level through the week.
