August 23, 2023 Wednesday

(Correction on Structure loss numbers at 2145 PT)

Photo Credit: Gray Fire PIO

The Gray Fire is burning about three miles SW of Medical Lake (Spokane), Washington which started on August 18, 2023. Investigators continue to work together to determine the cause. As of yet, there have not been any preliminary releases of what that could have been.

Photo Credits: Hilary Franz

Fire Command is under the leadership of the NW Team 7, a Type 2 IMT, with a total of 607 personnel including 13 crews, 71 engines, five dozers, 12 water tenders, and one helicopter. The Incident Command Post or ICP as known in the Fire Service world, will be moving from the Cheney Middle School to the Pine Lodge in Medical Lake.

Fire behavior is moderate with backing, creeping, and smoldering. The fire is still holding at 10,016 acres and there has been a 48% containment status reached.

Several communities and RR infrastructure are still under threat.

Evacuations are still in place.

Some rain fell over the fire on Tuesday.

A Community Meeting was held at the Riverside High School’s Cafeteria this evening at 1900 hours PDT giving an update on the incident and what to expect next, fire operations, and answering questions from the local community.

Additional homes and other buildings have been deemed lost. The number is now up to 326 with a cost-to-date for fire suppression and containment effort reaching a total amount of $3.2 Million.

A total of 850 mixed residential and are under threat, while 11 minor structures were damaged.

Photo Credit: Puget Sound Firefighters (Facebook Page)

Through the Eyes of Social Media & Residents Impacted by this Wildfire

“I don’t usually share much on social media but figured that this is the best way to update everyone on what is going on… our hearts are heavy as we lost the lake house. (Grandparents built the Eastern WA Bible Camp aka Silver Lake Camp). We are heartbroken, but so very thankful that we are safe and that we have our home on the farm where mom and our dear friends Rick & Cherie are able to stay with us. There are so many miracles that happened that day.” – Resident

“Praying for my hometown- heartbroken for my friends and community I grew up in and love so much.” – Former resident.

“I don’t usually struggle to find the right words, but I do today.” – Resident

“I was one of the lucky ones that didn’t lose their home this weekend. I was sent in on my bike to do recon and I lost count of 130+ homes lost from just the areas I inspected. Absolutely devastating. Many power lines are down and across the road in places, it’s definitely not safe for people to be there unless they are required to be.” – Resident.

“I’m finally back home in Florida so I was able to take a look at my footage from my flight to Spokane. My heart goes out to the people in this area who were affected by this wildfire. I had two different hotel stays that were evacuated.” – Traveler

“This is just shocking and devastating. 185 structures were lost around Medical Lake. This is my parent’s street. Their house is gone. My uncle’s and aunt’s house is gone too. They only had time to grab the dog, but thankfully they all made it out safely.” – Spokane Council Member Zack Zappone.

“Meet Ken! Ken is a survivor of the #GrayFire in Medical Lake, WA- found in a water dish, alone and scared.

(R) Photo Credit/Spokane Animal Welfare

We have lots more kittens and puppies coming in and need your help! Our foster program is crucial for kittens and puppies just like him, it provides them with a safe place to learn how to be a kitten/puppy outside of a shelter environment. We provide all the supplies, support, and vet care, all you need to provide is much-needed TLC and a warm place to sleep. If you are able to open your home to these lost and scared animals, PLEASE sign up at https://spokanimal.org/foster-program/.” – Spokane Animal C.A.R.E.

“More photos are emerging of my friend’s home. She has been unable to go back in person yet to look at what remains.” – Friend of a resident.

“Our West Plains community has been hit hard by the devastating Gray Wildfire. Our dedicated law enforcement and fire agencies from all across our county are working relentlessly around the clock to assist and protect our community members. The dedication and bravery they have exhibited within the last twenty-four hours in these challenging times is truly awe-inspiring!” – Cheney PD

(L) Photo Credit: Cheney Police Department

“HEART Spokane assisted with the care of nearly 300 animals at the fairgrounds including about 80 horses, 130 goats, and some pigs, cows, and chickens. We are also caring for over 30 pets at SFCC.” _ HEART Spokane.

(c) 2023 NW Fire Blog