Browsing: evacuations

Wildfires sweeping Washington state have forced at least 60,000 residents to flee their homes, officials say, as crews battle fast-moving flames and worsening air quality across the region.

About 60,000 residents in Spokane, Washington, have been ordered to evacuate as fast-moving wildfires threaten homes and infrastructure, officials say, prompting emergency shelters and air quality warnings.

Floodwaters across Washington state began to recede Friday after days of heavy rain, dramatic rescues and mass evacuations, though officials warned lingering hazards and damage assessments were still underway.