Weather forecast could be a concern

Key Points:

• The Spokane region is facing critical fire weather conditions with temperatures reaching mid-90s and strong winds up to 30 mph expected Friday and Saturday, increasing the risk of rapid fire spread due to hot, dry, and windy conditions.
• Air quality alerts are in effect across eastern Washington, eastern Oregon, and western Idaho because of wildfire smoke, posing health risks especially to vulnerable groups such as children, pregnant women, the elderly, and those with respiratory issues.
• Three major wildfires in the Spokane Complex—Old Trails, Autumn Lane, and Fairview—have burned over 10,500 acres combined, with containment now starting but still low (5-13%); over 600 to 1,100 structures have been damaged or destroyed.
• A 37-year-old man, Aaron F. Farinacci, has been arrested and charged with first-degree arson for allegedly starting the Old Trails Fire; he has a prior manslaughter conviction and denies the charges.
• A federal emergency declaration has been approved for Washington state, enabling FEMA to provide additional resources such as shelters, food, water, and search and rescue to support wildfire response and aid affected residents.