Fast-moving wildfires threaten city of Spokane, WA; National Guard activated
A fast-moving wildfire in Spokane, Washington, has forced thousands of evacuations and prompted the activation of the National Guard. Governor Bob Ferguson has declared a state of emergency as high winds and temperatures create dangerous conditions.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the increasing frequency and severity of wildfires in the Pacific Northwest, posing significant risks to public safety and infrastructure.
SPOKANE Wash. (KPTV / AP) - A fast-moving wildfire driven by strong winds and high temperatures swept across northwest Spokane, Wash., on Saturday before jumping the Spokane River and prompting the evacuation of thousands of people.
The Old Trails Fire started around noon, burning brush and grass in an open area, but quickly spread north and east toward neighborhoods in northwest and northeast Spokane.
Cars lined the roads as people fled their homes, and orange and red flames were visible from the highway.
According to officials, the Washington National Guard has been activated to help with the fire response.
The fire sent a plume of smoke billowing over the region, and as of the evening almost 4 square miles of terrain had been burned, said Courtney James, spokesperson for the Washington State Department of Natural Resources.
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