Spokane Valley, Washington – A fast-moving wildfire east of Spokane triggered a large-scale firefighting response as flames spread through vegetation and reached residential areas under difficult conditions.

Air tankers flew low through thick smoke over neighborhoods and burning trees, releasing long streams of bright pink fire retardant across the affected landscape. The aircraft made repeated passes, targeting areas where the fire was actively spreading.

On the ground, firefighters in full protective gear worked alongside fire engines and utility vehicles near damaged homes and scorched trees. Dense smoke drifted through the area, reducing visibility as crews continued operations.

The Upriver Fire began on June 16, 2026, and quickly expanded through dry vegetation east of Spokane. The rapid spread of the fire led to Level 3 evacuation orders affecting thousands of residents and resulted in multiple homes being destroyed.

Aerial firefighting became a key part of the response, with pilots and air crews supporting ground teams during the most intense phase of the fire.

A firefighter with 31 years of experience described the operation, saying, “I’ve been doing this for 31 years, and I’ve never seen that much air support on a fire that fast.”

Officials said the combined use of air tankers and ground crews helped slow the fire’s advance under extremely challenging conditions.

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