Raging Spokane Wildfires Destroy Homes and Displace Thousands of People and Pets
Andrea Powell
On August 1st, three wildfires ignited in Spokane County, Washington and have been devastating communities ever since with 0% containment (as of Monday morning).
The Old Trails Fire, Autumn Lane Fire, and Fairview Fire quickly spread destroying over 700 homes and buildings, burning more than 8,000 acres, and displacing nearly 65,000 people and countless pets.
Local and out-of-state firefighters continue to battle the flames that are being fueled by hot, dry weather and high winds.
Animal shelters are seeing an influx of displaced pets as the wildfires rage on and evacuations continue.
The Pacific Northwest is facing its worst fire season in more than 30 years.
Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson declared a statewide wildlife emergency and issued a statewide burn ban.
“There are so many Washingtonians who have literally lost everything in a very, very short period of time," Gov. Ferguson said at a news conference. "In just a matter of hours, their lives changed in deeply dramatic and fundamental ways.”
There is no rain in the forecast and residents are told to be vigilant about watching their area for evacuation notices.
Emergency aid is needed for people and pets displaced by these wildfires. Our partner, Greater Good Charities, is on the ground mobilizing aid. As families evacuate, local animal shelters are working to keep displaced pets fed and safe amid heavy smoke and rapidly changing conditions.
SpokeAnimal C.A.R.E. is taking in displaced pets to help families forced to evacuate. Executive Director Dori shared a video on their Facebook page informing those impacted to feel free to reach out for help. She also shared a photo of a dog found in a fire zone who is getting care while they look for his owner.
Spokane Mayor Lisa Brown talked to NPR and said, “this is an unprecedented situation, and it is not over yet.” She went on to say, “we have had fires before, but not of this magnitude.”
Essential supplies and aid are needed now for those displaced and long-term aid will be needed to help these communities as they rebuild.
Donate today to help people and pets impacted by the Spokane wildfires.
