Spokane City Council Members Urges the Community to Remain Vigilant
Lisa Gardner, City Council Communications Director, lgardner@spokanecity.org
Monday, August 3, 2026 at 11:37 a.m.
Members of the Spokane City Council extends its deepest gratitude to the multitude of firefighters, law enforcement officers, emergency medical personnel, public works crews, utility workers, volunteers, and our community, who are working around the clock to protect lives and property as the Spokane-area wildfire emergency continues.
While crews have made progress in some areas, officials stress that the emergency is not over. Active fires, including the Old Trails Fire, Autumn Lane and the Nine Mile area, remain a threat, and changing weather conditions, including wind and airborne embers, continue to create dangerous conditions. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and be prepared to evacuate if they have not already been declared an evacuation area.
“Over the weekend, city, county, state, and federal partners have worked under a unified emergency management response that I am proud to see at play,” said Council President Betsy Wilkerson. “The City and Spokane County officials continue to coordinate resources and plan for both immediate response and long-term recovery. It is important that we work with our National Guard as they come into our city to help navigate this turbulent and heartbreaking emergency.”
As response efforts continue, residents should expect to see members of the National Guard, including military police, assisting with traffic control, security, and public safety throughout affected areas. Their presence is intended to support local first responders and help protect evacuated neighborhoods.
“It is important to emphasize that the National Guard is not here to collaborate with or report to ICE during recovery efforts,” said Council Member Zack Zappone. “They are here to help with fire safety. Unfortunately, so many family members, friends, and neighbors in our community have lost their homes and are displaced, including a member of my own family. We understand the desire to return to your properties and know with certainty when you can return. However, we ask for your patience in the coming days. You can help first responders by keeping evacuation areas clear as we work to assess the damage, contain the fire, and ensure the safety of the community.”
More than 60,000 residents have been affected by evacuation orders, with hundreds seeking refuge at emergency shelters at The Spokane Convention Center, the primary emergency site. Officials continue to be on the ground assessing community needs, including food, water, medical supplies, behavioral health support, and temporary housing.
Residents are reminded that evacuation orders remain in place for public safety. Officials understand that many people want to return home, retrieve belongings, or check on loved ones, but access will be restored only when emergency responders determine areas are safe. Updated information and re-entry guidance will be provided through the Spokane Regional Emergency Communications (SREC) system and official city and county communications.
Resources are available throughout the Spokane region for individuals affected by wildfire evacuations, response efforts, and recovery. Community members are encouraged to make use of these services and available assistance.
Community members wishing to help are encouraged to contribute through established organizations:
“The strength of Spokane has always been our willingness to care for one another,” said Council Member Kitty Klitzke. “Even in the face of unimaginable loss, our community has demonstrated extraordinary resilience, compassion, and courage. We remain committed to supporting every resident through response, recovery, and rebuilding.”
For more information on recovery and support efforts, visit the city’s website for up-to-date information and watch the press conference held on Sunday with elected officials for a comprehensive report on the Spokane Complex Fire.
In Spokane
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