A wildfire raging northwest of downtown Spokane, Washington, has caused extensive destruction. Over 600 structures have been impacted as authorities continue to evaluate the damage.
As of Sunday, the fire spans 5,390 acres, according to Benjamin Cossel from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. He informed NBC News that efforts are ongoing to fully assess the extent of the destruction.
Authorities have confirmed the damage to more than 600 structures; however, the exact breakdown of affected homes, businesses, and schools remains undetermined.
“Authorities are working diligently to determine the impact of the fires,” said an official.
The Spokane Area Fires consist of three separate incidents: the Old Trails Fire, the Fairview Fire, and the Autumn Lane Fire. The California Interagency Incident Management Teams took charge after arriving on Saturday night, using their expertise in managing fires threatening urban areas. Team officials discussed their strategy in an interview with NBC affiliate KHQ of Spokane.
Evacuation zones are being kept closed until authorities deem them safe for returning residents.
Witnesses shared social media posts verified by NBC News, depicting a local sports complex engulfed in smoke before it was consumed by flames.
This situation is evolving; updates will continue as more information becomes available.