Wildfires burning across Washington state have triggered large-scale evacuations, power outages, and a statewide emergency declaration as firefighters battle multiple fast-moving blazes under extreme weather conditions. The emergency comes as the state faces one of its most challenging wildfire seasons in recent years, with more than 250,000 acres already affected by active fires.

Spokane Faces Growing Threat as Fires Spread

The city of Spokane, the second-largest city in Washington state, has become one of the worst-affected areas. Officials said the Old Trails Fire has expanded rapidly, threatening thousands of structures and forcing evacuations in several neighborhoods. Some public facilities, including a Department of Veterans Affairs hospital, water treatment facilities, and a waste-to-energy plant, were evacuated as a precaution. Authorities reported no confirmed fatalities or injuries at the time of publication.

Utility provider Avista reported widespread power disruptions affecting about 60,000 customers as emergency crews worked to reduce additional fire risks. Officials warned that evacuation figures could increase as fire conditions change.

Statewide Emergency Mobilizes Resources

Washington Governor Bob Ferguson declared a statewide emergency and imposed a burn ban, citing dangerous fire weather driven by high temperatures, strong winds, and dry vegetation. Around 4,000 firefighters, supported by the Washington National Guard and crews from more than a dozen US states, have been deployed to contain more than a dozen active fires.

The state's Commissioner of Public Lands said approximately 450,000 acres have burned across Washington during the 2026 fire season, highlighting the scale of the ongoing emergency. The Kaiser Canyon Fire, covering about 134,000 acres, remains the state's largest active wildfire.

Weather Conditions Remain a Major Challenge

Emergency officials said strong winds and persistent heat are expected to complicate firefighting efforts in the coming days. The National Weather Service has warned of continued elevated wildfire danger across parts of the Pacific Northwest. Authorities have urged residents to follow evacuation orders, monitor official updates, and avoid activities that could ignite new fires.