Eastern Washington wildfires destroy 600 structures, force 60,000 to evacuate

On Sunday, authorities revealed that wildfires in eastern Washington state have led to the destruction of at least 600 structures, including homes and businesses, and have necessitated the evacuation of 60,000 residents in the Spokane region. Over the weekend, these fires scorched around 21 square kilometers (8.2 square miles) and are part of a larger series of wildfires affecting the western United States, which have overwhelmed firefighting resources at all levels. Approximately 1,000 square kilometers have burned statewide, with some fires, particularly near Spokane, still not under control. Investigators have yet to identify the cause of the fires. Washington Senator Maria Cantwell cautioned that the threat persists. Fire officials reported no injuries or missing individuals, but emphasized that the response is still in its early stages, with evacuees including patients from the Spokane US Veterans Affairs hospital.