Multiple fast-moving wildfires tearing through the Spokane metropolitan area have caused catastrophic destruction, destroying an estimated 700 structures and forcing approximately 60,000 residents to evacuate — making it the worst wildfire disaster in the city's history. Washington Governor Bob Ferguson declared a statewide wildfire emergency as the fires continue to burn.

Active Fires in the Spokane Region

The Spokane Complex, a cluster of several interconnected fires including the Old Trails, Autumn Lane, and Fairview fires, has been the most destructive incident burning in Washington this season. The fires swept through densely populated neighborhoods with extreme speed, driven by critically dry fuels, low relative humidity, and erratic winds.

As of Sunday, August 9, major fires burning in and around Spokane County include:

  • Spokane Complex (Old Trails, Autumn Lane, Fairview fires): Thousands of acres burned within city limits and suburban areas. Estimated 700+ structures destroyed, including hundreds of homes. Road closures remain in effect throughout affected corridors.
  • Kaiser Canyon Fire (Okanogan County): The largest active fire in Washington state at 128,211 acres and only 16% contained. Burning in rugged terrain through critically dry timber, brush, and grass in the north-central part of the state.
  • Little Giant Fire (Chelan County): Located in the Entiat Valley near Lake Chelan, this fire has grown to over 25,407 acres with 0% containment. Evacuation orders have been issued for portions of both the Lake Chelan north and south shores.

Arson Arrest in Old Trails Fire

Investigators made an arson arrest in connection with the Old Trails Fire, one of the blazes contributing to the Spokane Complex. Law enforcement has not released additional details on the suspect or confirmed whether the arson was responsible for the full extent of the fire's spread.

Statewide Emergency Declaration

Governor Ferguson's emergency declaration includes a strict ban on most outdoor fires and agricultural burning, effective until September 30. Campfire bans have been implemented across all Washington state lands, Olympic National Park, and Olympic National Forest. State utility companies are also working with officials on strategic power interruptions to reduce fire ignition risk from downed or arcing power lines during high-wind events.

Recovery and Return

Spokane Police Chief Kevin Hall said getting affected residents safely back into their neighborhoods will take time. Streets remain blocked in multiple sectors as utility crews work to assess and restore power, and as fire investigators document structural damage. Evacuees have been directed to emergency shelters established across the Spokane metro area.

Fire officials report that some areas of the Spokane Complex have seen improved containment figures as weather conditions temporarily moderated over the weekend, but crews caution that hot, dry, and windy conditions could return this week and drive renewed fire activity.