Full Breakdown
Upriver Fire Threatens Spokane Suburbs, Prompting Massive Evacuations and Federal Aid Request
6/18/2026, 1:58:29 AM
Fire Ignition and Immediate Threat
A brush fire ignited just after 12:30 p.m. on June 16 2026 in the Camp Sekani area along Upriver Drive, northeast of Spokane, Washington. Strong west winds of 15-30 mph with gusts up to 50 mph and low humidity (12-23 %) accelerated the blaze, which quickly grew to several hundred acres. The ignition source remains under investigation.
Chronology of Key Actions
The fire was reported at 12:30 p.m.; DNR estimated ~50 acres by 1:50 p.m., while local districts reported up to 100 acres. Evacuation texts were sent at 1:08 p.m., and Level 3 orders covered Upriver Drive, Bigelow Gulch, Argonne and Northwood. Aerial surveys listed the blaze at 250-350 acres, and at 4:24 p.m. Amy Thorton announced 0 % containment and a threat to 500 homes. Governor Ferguson requested FEMA assistance; shelters opened and power was shut off in northwest Spokane.
Scope, Resources, and Threats
Agency estimates place the fire between 230 acres (Seattle Times) and 352 acres (DNR), with 0 % containment reported. Over 300 firefighters, 65+ apparatus, and at least six aircraft—including air tankers and helicopters—were deployed, supported by dozers and five state strike crews. The blaze threatened about 500 homes, with at least five confirmed losses, and placed 2,340 structures under evacuation orders. Between 11,000 and 12,000 residents were ordered to evacuate. Avista de-energized power lines, affecting roughly 1,800 customers. The Red Cross opened a shelter at Spokane Valley United Methodist Church.
Official Responses
Governor Bob Ferguson announced his request for a FEMA fire-management assistance declaration. Fire chief Matthew Vinci warned that the fire was extremely dangerous and urged residents to stay out of the fire zone. Deputy State Fire Marshal Amy Thorton highlighted the threat to 500 homes, power lines and water supplies. DNR spokesperson Ryan Rodruck highlighted a strong aerial response and urged compliance with burn bans.
Conflicting Data and Gaps
Acreage estimates vary from 230 to 352 acres. The precise number of structures destroyed is limited to “at least five.” Evacuation counts differ between 11,000 and nearly 12,000. The fire’s cause remains under investigation, and no containment progress beyond 0 % has been reported.
Verbatim Quotes
- “My thoughts are with the first responders fighting this blaze, and with the families evacuated from their homes,” — Bob Ferguson, Washington Governor
- “Wind-driven fires are very, very dangerous,” — Matthew Vinci, Spokane County Fire District 9 fire chief
- “Folks are going to be seeing a tremendous air presence.” — Ryan Rodruck, Washington DNR wildfire communication manager
- “If there is time to safely do so, evacuees are encouraged to bring the following for each member of their family: prescription and emergency medication, extra clothing, pillows, blankets, hygiene supplies, important documents, and other comfort items.” — American Red Cross spokesperson
Future Actions
Fire crews will continue aerial and ground suppression through the night while FEMA reviews the request. Forecasts call for continued gusty winds, sustaining fire-weather risk. Avista plans to restore power once conditions permit, and the Red Cross will keep the shelter open until residents return.
