Home / Disasters and Accidents / Rapid Wildfire Crosses River, Forces Immediate Evacuations
Rapid Wildfire Crosses River, Forces Immediate Evacuations
2 Aug
Summary
- Old Trail Fire triggered Level 3 evacuations near Airway Heights.
- The wildfire rapidly spread, crossing a river and forcing evacuations.
- Over 7,000 customers lost power due to a safety shutoff.
A rapidly spreading wildfire, known as the Old Trail Fire, has ignited urgent evacuation orders near Airway Heights, Washington. The blaze quickly crossed a river, escalating to a Level 3 "Go Now" alert for residents in specified zones. Evacuation orders now include Riverside State Park and the Dwight Merkle Sports Complex due to the fire's swift progression. Emergency crews, supported by aerial resources, are actively battling the wildfire. In response to the heightened fire danger, Avista has implemented a Public Safety Power Shutoff affecting more than 7,000 customers. Authorities are strongly advising those in evacuation areas to depart immediately and to stay informed through official channels as firefighting efforts continue.
