WASHINGTON: Around 60,000 people have been ordered to evacuate as fast-moving wildfires continue to threaten the city of Spokane in Washington state, destroying hundreds of buildings and prompting a statewide emergency.
The Spokane Area Fire, comprising three major blazes, has burned more than 5,390 acres (2,180 hectares) and remains uncontained, according to local fire officials.
The fires have destroyed about 600 structures, including homes and businesses, making it one of the most destructive wildfire events in the region’s history.
Spokane Fire Chief Tom Williams said the fires continue to pose a serious threat to areas under evacuation orders, while Mayor Lisa Brown described the disaster as the worst natural emergency the region has ever faced.
Despite the extensive damage, authorities said no deaths or injuries had been reported as of Sunday.
Around 10,000 electricity customers remained without power after the fires damaged infrastructure and forced precautionary shutdowns, utility officials said. Emergency shelters have been opened for displaced residents as firefighters work to contain the rapidly spreading blazes.
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Washington Governor Bob Ferguson has declared a statewide emergency and requested federal assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) following discussions with US President Donald Trump.
State officials said more than 250,000 acres are currently burning across Washington, with dozens of active wildfires stretching firefighting resources.
Dry vegetation, prolonged drought and strong winds have fuelled the fires, while forecasters warned that weather conditions could continue to hamper containment efforts.
Officials have urged residents in evacuation zones to leave immediately and follow emergency instructions as firefighters battle the blazes.
