A wind-driven wildfire in eastern Washington state has killed one person, destroyed 185 structures, and forced the closure of a major highway.
Background: The fire started on Friday on the west side of Medical Lake, approximately 15 miles west of Spokane, and rapidly expanded.
* The fire covered nearly 15 square miles with zero containment by Saturday morning, with the quantity of destroyed structures comprising a mix of homes and outbuildings.
* The wildfire resulted in one confirmed fatality, with further details not immediately released.
Evacuation and Response: Evacuation orders were issued as the wind blew the flames southward from the town towards Tyler.
* Patients, residents, and staff at Eastern State Hospital and Lakeland Village Residential Habilitation Center, both in Medical Lake, were sheltering in place.
* People evacuated from the town stayed overnight at a high school.
Impact: Interstate 90, a major east-west route, was closed as the wildfire crossed its path causing the highway to close in both directions.
* Among the destroyed homes were those of Spokane City Councilman Zack Zappone’s parents and uncle, indicating the broad impact of the fire.
Public Reaction: Washington Governor Jay Inslee expressed concern for the evacuated residents and first responders, wishing them safety.
* The cause of the fire is currently unknown.
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