Smoke from multiple wildfires continues to hang over the mountains of central and eastern Washington, particularly around Spokane, as firefighting helicopters drop water on the forest fires and crews reinforce containment lines. Aerial footage shows thick plumes rising from the forests, with helicopters scooping water from nearby lakes to combat the blazes.

National Guard units remain active in water-dropping operations, supporting firefighters who have benefited from recent cooler weather that has helped slow the fires' spread. However, officials warn that hotter, drier, and windier conditions expected later this week could complicate firefighting efforts.

The fires around Spokane have destroyed hundreds of buildings and forced tens of thousands of people to evacuate. Authorities have stated that all three major fires in the area were started by people and are currently under investigation.

Sources