Wildfires and Gridlock: The Perfect Storm in Eastern Washington As the wildfire season intensifies across the American West, a perfect storm of high winds, soaring temperatures, and steep terrain has crippled eastern Washington.
The evacuations prompted by the Old Trails Fire are just one symptom of a more profound issue – one that highlights the region's unpreparedness for the changing climate.
Governor Bob Ferguson's declaration of a state of emergency is a necessary step in this crisis, but it also underscores the inadequacy of existing infrastructure and planning.