Fast-moving wildfires near Spokane have destroyed hundreds of structures and forced thousands of residents from their homes, prompting a reality television personality and wildfire survivor to warn communities across the country to prepare before disaster strikes. Spencer Pratt, whose own home in Pacific Palisades was lost in the 2025 Palisades Fire, said the devastation unfolding in eastern Washington should serve as a stark reminder that no community is immune.
«My deepest sympathies to the folks in Spokane who just lost everything in an instant,» Pratt wrote in a lengthy social media post on Sunday. «Nothing can really prepare you for this devastation.» He added a blunt warning: «And everyone else, take heed... this is coming for you, too. Don't wait til the fire is at your patio door.»
Pratt urged families to establish evacuation plans before an emergency occurs, noting that wildfires often spread too quickly for last-minute decisions. «Have a plan. Don't expect government to be there to save your home,» he wrote. «Don't expect the fire to wait until you're at home and awake and ready... think about what happens when the fire comes at 2AM dead asleep, or when you're at work downtown, or 3 beers in on a river float 20 miles from home and your cats are all locked inside. You seldom get a real warning before the fire comes.»
He also reflected on losses beyond property damage, saying he had not seen reports of fatalities but feared many beloved pets had perished. «For many, that's like losing family,» he wrote. Pratt encouraged neighbors to support each other through what he predicted would be a lengthy recovery. «Please look after your neighbors; they have a very long and painful road ahead, and everyone will move on from caring about Spokane in a week or so,» he said. He concluded by urging those affected to lean on faith: «Above all else, if I can offer any advice right now... lean further into God. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.»
The wildfires that prompted Pratt's message have overwhelmed the Spokane area. According to Incident Commander Benjamin Cossel of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Autumn Lane Fire has burned 3,333 acres, the Old Trail Fire has scorched 3,481 acres, and the Fairview Fire has grown to 914 acres. All three fires remained 0 percent contained as of the latest update. More than 900 firefighters and support personnel have been deployed, with the Autumn Lane Fire remaining the primary focus.
Authorities said approximately 5,000 homes have been evacuated as firefighters battle the blazes. Incident command has confirmed more than 600 structures have been destroyed, though officials cautioned that number could rise as crews gain access to damaged areas. The American Red Cross Northwest Region said more than 400 people and their pets spent Saturday night at an emergency shelter in Spokane after the fires forced widespread evacuations.
«Extreme weather conditions led three separate wildfires to wreak havoc on Saturday, forcing widespread evacuations, causing extensive destruction, and forever changing the lives of those affected,» the Red Cross said. The organization said it has launched a massive relief effort and is seeking donations and volunteers to assist displaced residents.
Messages of support have poured in from public figures. Former Washington state representative Matt Shea shared a photo of an American flag still standing after flames swept through a neighborhood, calling it «an amazing picture of hope among the ashes.» Former Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson also posted on social media, writing, «Praying for Spokane!»
Political leaders have moved quickly to address the crisis. Representative Michael Baumgartner, a Republican from Washington, said he spoke with Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin about potential federal assistance. «After Gov. Ferguson requests emergency assistance he will take the official request for FEMA support to President Trump,» Baumgartner wrote on social media.
Washington Governor Bob Ferguson later said he spoke directly with President Donald Trump and Secretary Mullin, describing the devastation in Spokane and across the state. «Just a few minutes ago, I spoke with President Trump and Secretary Mullin. I detailed how dire and devastating the situation is in Spokane and across our state,» Ferguson wrote. He said Trump expressed concern for the people of Washington and that the two would work together on additional requests for federal assistance. Ferguson said he was optimistic about a quick approval for a federal emergency declaration.