SIT REP 2: Saturday, August 19, 2023, 1230 PT

The GRAY FIRE is burning about three miles southwest of Medical Lake (Spokane County), in Washington State, which ignited from an unknown source on Friday.

The fire has destroyed 9,500 acres of timber and tall grass and has taken up 185-plus structures, as well as, threatening 150 more buildings/homes along with several communities and infrastructure.

At noon today, Spokane County Officials declared a State of Emergency.

Fire behavior remains as extreme with wind-driven runs, crowning, and long-range spotting.

Level 3 evacuations are in effect.

As of the 0600 NIFC’s report, the total cost-to-date for fire suppression and containment efforts has reached $300,000. We are unsure if this includes the 185 lost structures or not but we imagine the future CTD is going to run in the multitude of millions of dollars.

Photo Credit (below): SCSO Air1

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