SPOKANE, Wash. (AP) — A fast-moving wildfire driven by strong winds and high temperatures swept across northwest Spokane on Saturday, August 1, 2026, before jumping the Spokane River and prompting the evacuation of thousands of people.
The Old Trails Fire started near the Old Trails Road area and quickly spread due to gusty winds and dry conditions. By Saturday evening, the fire had crossed the Spokane River, forcing evacuations in several neighborhoods. Local authorities issued mandatory evacuation orders for affected areas, and emergency shelters were opened for displaced residents.
As of Sunday morning, the fire had burned an estimated 2,000 acres, according to the Washington State Department of Natural Resources. Fire crews from multiple agencies were battling the blaze, aided by cooler temperatures and calmer winds overnight. No injuries have been reported, but several structures have been damaged or destroyed.
Officials urged residents to follow evacuation orders and stay informed through local emergency channels. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
