Trail of Destruction

Three fast-moving wildfires around Spokane, Washington, have forced ~65,000 people to evacuate the area since Saturday.

The blazes have destroyed over 700 structures (mostly homes) and scorched 10,000+ acres across Spokane County (see map and pics here). Over 900 firefighters and National Guard members are battling flames fueled by high winds, heat, and drought. Spokane’s mayor called it “an unprecedented situation” for the city of 230,000, and Washington’s governor described the city as a “war zone.” No deaths or injuries have been reported.

On Monday, police arrested a 37-year-old man on suspicion of first-degree arson in the biggest blaze, the Old Trails Fire. A witness reported seeing him kneeling near roadside grass; officers say he had matches and a lighter. The suspect, who has a prior manslaughter conviction, is held on $1M bail and appeared in court yesterday.

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Verse to consider when disasters have you worrying… “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will hold on to you with my righteous right hand.”
Isaiah 41:10 (CSB) (read full passage)