A rapidly spreading wildfire in Washington state has exploded in size, leaving a trail of destruction and forcing thousands to flee their homes near Spokane.

Officials say the fast-moving blaze has already burned through at least 600 structures, as flames tore across dry land fueled by strong winds and extreme heat. Entire neighborhoods have been threatened, with emergency crews racing against time to contain the inferno.

More than 5,000 homes have been placed under evacuation orders, as residents were forced to leave with little notice, many grabbing only essential belongings. Thick smoke has blanketed the region, reducing visibility and creating hazardous air conditions.

Firefighters from multiple agencies are working around the clock to battle the flames, but containment efforts have been challenging due to unpredictable fire behavior and shifting winds. Authorities warn that the number of destroyed buildings could rise as crews continue to assess the damage.

Local officials have declared a state of emergency, urging residents to follow evacuation orders and stay updated through official channels. Shelters have been set up for displaced families, while emergency responders continue search and rescue efforts in affected areas.

The cause of the wildfire is still under investigation. Meanwhile, communities near Spokane remain on high alert as the situation continues to զարգ rapidly, with officials warning that conditions could worsen before improving

Sources: https://www.nytimes.com/international/section/us