Wildfires burning across more than 250,000 acres (around 1,011 square kilometres) in Washington state have prompted evacuations and widespread power outages, with officials warning that high winds and extreme heat are making firefighting efforts more difficult.

The Spokane area is among the hardest-hit regions, with the Old Trails Fire burning about 3,000 acres (around 12.1 square kilometres) and threatening around 4,000 structures, according to state officials.

Residents from about 200 homes in Spokane were evacuated to safety by Saturday afternoon, with authorities warning the number could increase as the fire spreads.

Several major facilities, including water reclamation sites, a waste-energy plant and a Department of Veterans Affairs hospital, were also evacuated as a precaution.

Thousands deployed to battle fires

Washington Commissioner of Public Lands Dave Upthegrove said around 4,000 firefighters were working to contain more than a dozen wildfires across the state.

Governor Bob Ferguson declared a statewide emergency and issued a burn ban as officials warned that strong winds and high temperatures could worsen conditions.

The Washington State Emergency Management Division said around 60,000 people were without power in eastern Washington.

Fire season reaches critical levels

Officials said around 450,000 acres (around 1821 square kilometres) have burned across Washington state this summer, describing the situation as far from normal.

The Kaiser Canyon Fire in northeastern Washington has become the largest blaze in the state, covering around 134,000 acres (around 542.3 square kilometres), while the Spokane fire is among five major wildfire complexes currently active.

Firefighters from more than a dozen states, along with the National Guard, have joined efforts to support local crews as authorities continue monitoring the rapidly changing conditions.

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Climate and Environment Wildfires United States Washington State News