Lisa Brown urges Spokane residents to remain vigilant as three major wildfires devastate the region.
Spokane Mayor Lisa Brown warned residents to remain vigilant as three major wildfires—the Old Trails, Fairview, and Autumn Lane fires—continue to ravage Spokane County, Washington. The blazes have consumed over 8,000 acres and remain entirely uncontained, forcing the evacuation of nearly 65,000 people and destroying more than 700 structures. Mayor Lisa Brown noted that these fires represent the worst natural disaster in the county's history. While firefighters currently benefit from light winds and high temperatures, the fires are expected to accelerate as heat builds throughout the week. Smoke from the fires has caused Spokane to experience the worst air quality in the country, with an Air Quality Index of 200, which is considered unhealthy for sensitive groups. Authorities are currently investigating the causes of the fires. Law enforcement is following up on several missing persons reports as crews work to protect lives and property. Residents are encouraged to stay out of evacuation areas until further notice to ensure safety as the fires continue to spread.