Gray and Oregon Wildfires

2023 Spokane County

Introduction

On a blistering summer day, fueled by relentless winds, the Gray and Oregon (locally known and from now on referred to as the “Oregon Road Fire”) Fires blazed across 23,000 acres of dry forests, grass and shrub lands, and residential areas. These fires, erupting just 41 miles apart in Spokane County, Washington, resulted in the destruction of 366 primary homes and a total of 710 structures. Resources were spread thin as four large fires began within 24 hours of each other.

Source: WDNR, IMT; * denotes Type 3 IMT requested while fire perimeter was in the United States jurisdiction.

For three tumultuous days, extreme fire behavior and rapid spread persisted until a shift in weather conditions and the arrival of Incident Management Teams (IMTs) provided a reprieve. The enduring impact on both the community members and first responders from these three days is immeasurable.

On August 18th, 2023, the Oregon Fire erupted in Spokane County in the dry timber forests near the border of Idaho. The Gray Fire originated in the Medical Lake Community, nestled amidst wheat fields, ponderosa pine forests, and a densely populated Wildland Urban Interface (WUI). Conversely, the Oregon Road Fire began further northeast in a rural enclave, dotted with scattered homes, hemmed in by industrial forestland to the north and east. While distinct in their fuel sources and surroundings, both blazes yielded eerily similar outcomes—widespread devastation and the potential for catastrophe on an even greater scale.

The coordinated response within the critical 72-hour window bore testament to the seamless collaboration among Spokane County Fire Districts, Wildland Fire and Dispatch Agencies, the Spokane Emergency Communications Center, County Sheriff, WA State Patrol, ranchers, landowners, and community members. This synchronized effort, marked by swift evacuations, undoubtedly saved countless lives. Amid the coordinated efforts, tragedy struck with the loss of two civilians on August 18 th  during the first hours of the fire.

A combination of the coordinated response, encompassing evacuations, Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) fire suppression strategies employed, and previous fuels reduction treatments influenced the decisions and outcomes during the management of these incidents. The lessons learned from these incidents provide an opportunity not only for responders and land managers, but also for policymakers and private landowners to inform and shape future responses to fires like this and make proactive decisions about how to prepare for them to minimize their impacts.

Spokane County:

Nestled within the heart of the Inland Northwest, Spokane County boasts a landscape as diverse as it is breathtaking. To the north, there are forested mountains, in the southeast, fertile agricultural fields, and to the southwest, channeled scablands carve their way through the earth. Spokane County's varied vegetation types present unique fire risks, exacerbated by the region's arid climate and frequent bouts of wind. It's a reality that the county's residents know all too well, as wildfires have long been a part of life in this geography. Despite the challenges posed by nature, Spokane County has always been a place of resilience and reinvention. The county played a pivotal role as an early hub for agriculture, mining, timber, and railroad industries in the Inland Northwest, fueling the region's growth and prosperity. Today, the city and county of Spokane have evolved into a bustling metropolis, a vibrant center of medical, financial, and commercial activities.

Medical Lake : Located on the western outskirts of Spokane, Medical Lake boasts a diversity of land uses including forestry, agriculture, University, commercial, and industrial properties, a large hospital, and a National Wildlife refuge. Since the late 90's, the area has seen rapid suburban residential development. The population has grown by more than 35% since the early 2000s.

Elk, WA: In the northern part of Spokane County, Elk is an unincorporated community with a patchwork of agriculture fields, forestry, and recreational land. Mount Spokane State Park lies at the southernmost end of this community and is interspersed with commercial forestland, small family forests, wooded riparian areas, and widespread residential homes.

Fire History

For centuries, wildfires have played a pivotal role in shaping the ecology of Spokane County. Lightning strikes, other natural phenomena, and human activity have ignited fires that swept across the landscape. From the fires in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, fueled by the rapid expansion of logging and railroad industries, to the more recent ones that have threatened homes and livelihoods, fire has left an indelible mark on the county's history. Consistently, Spokane County annually bears the highest concentration of fires in the state of Washington.

In Spokane County, the interplay between fire and wind can transform a small brush fire into a raging inferno, driving flames across the landscape at breakneck speeds. During the dry, hot months of summer, when vegetation becomes tinder-dry and susceptible to ignition, the stage is set for the potential outbreak of wildfires. All it takes is a spark—whether from a lightning strike, a discarded cigarette, or other human activity—to ignite a blaze that can quickly spiral out of control. These extreme weather conditions are becoming all too common.

Tom Jenkins, Fire Chief, speaks about the Firestorms of 1991 in Spokane County.

The Firestorm of 1991 in Spokane County stands as a grim reminder of nature's indiscriminate power and the catastrophic consequences of extreme wildfire events. It is a day etched into the collective memory of the region, forever altering the landscape, fire response, and the lives of its inhabitants.

Spokesman Review Article

On October 16, 1991, a potent combination of strong winds, dry vegetation, and low humidity set the stage for disaster following 41 days without rain. A series of small fires sparked by downed power lines and lightning strikes fueled by winds gusting at speeds up to 62 miles per hour spread rapidly. Winds propelled embers miles ahead of the main fire front. The devastating conditions led to 911 centers receiving over 3,000 calls within 24 hours, the destruction of 114 homes, and the scorching of 35,000 acres. In the aftermath of Firestorm 1991, Spokane County vowed to rebuild, recover, and learn valuable lessons about the importance of fire preparedness, community resilience, and environmental stewardship. From this experience, the county developed the foundation for future successful coordinated responses to wildfire, the results of which were witnessed during the effective response that occurred over 30 years later during the Gray and Oregon Road Fires.

30th anniversary of Firestorm '91 to be held tomorrow

Whether it's in Okanogan, Spokane, or Lincoln County, there is always a fire somewhere.

Jill Jones, Former Dispatch, Northeast Washington Interagency Communication Center (NEWICC)

   

Summer 2023 Weather

June through August, Eastern Washington was gripped by a relentless heatwave and drought. By August 1st, the National Drought Mitigation Center declared a Moderate drought in Spokane and Pend Oreille Counties as the region sweltered under temperatures that soared well above the seasonal norm, with average readings 3-5°F higher than average. The already tinder-dry landscape was further desiccated by meager summer rainfall with a mere 56% of normal in Spokane and 40% of normal precipitation in Deer Park. Conditions were primed for extreme conditions to develop in both the grasses and timber of eastern Washington. Burn bans were issued in Spokane County by June 30th to restrict all open burning and recreational fires. By August 4th, the Washington State DNR’s Northeast region banned all debris burning and campfires on DNR jurisdiction.

Weather Conditions in August 2023 

Executive Weather Summary; Eastern Washington Wildfires of August 18th, 2023. WDNR

During the week of August 14th, 2023, Eastern Washington endured scorching temperatures and relentless winds. Both Spokane and Deer Park experienced four consecutive days of record-breaking or near-record temperatures. These extreme conditions, with hot days and warm nights, rapidly dried and cured fuels, creating a high risk for extreme fire behavior.

Weather Conditions the Day of Ignition

On August 17th-18th, 2023, eastern Washington faced critical fire weather conditions. An approaching cold front brought relief from scorching temperatures, dropping them by 5-10°F, but also brought dangerously low relative humidity and sustained winds exceeding 20 mph. By early afternoon on August 18th, a cold front broke down the ridge, driven by extremely dry air from northern Canada into eastern Washington. These conditions are  Watch Out  situations for standard firefighting operations.

GOES Satellite Imagery NWS Spokane *should image move to wind shift*

By early afternoon on August 18th, a cold front broke down the ridge, driven by extremely dry air from northern Canada into eastern Washington.

 A cross section through a cold-front occlusion shows the warm air having been lifted above the two colder air masses. At the surface, cold air is displacing cool air. The weather and winds associated with the frontal passage are similar to those with a cold front ( NWCG ).

Oregon Fire; first initial hours

These conditions are  Watch Out  situations for standard firefighting operations.

Weather service was varsity squad that day...they were watching the weather and knew that communication was vital and necessary to get to the incident commanders and made extra effort to call us...this wind shift is a big deal.

Jill Jones, Former Dispatch, NE Washington Interagency Communications Center (NEWICC)

Report of Brush Fire 1228 hours, August 18th, 2023; audio from first responder en route.

A Sherriff's deputy needed a way out from the Bible Camp. I made the recommendation to shelter in place.

Bill Dennstaedt, Deputy Chief, Spokane County Fire District #3

Evacuations

Evacuations occurred quickly and rapidly expanded during the initial attack phases for both fires. Life is a non-negotiable paramount priority of every incident and evacuations were the priority for both fires. During the initial attack stage of the Gray Fire, first responders and emergency management swiftly executed over 1,000  Level 3 (GO!)  evacuations within two hours of the first 911 report. A 13-mile segment of I-90 was closed in both directions and more than 2,500 residents of Medical Lake and Four Lakes were placed under a Level 3 evacuation. More than 8,000 people were evacuated under  Level 3 (GO!)  from the community of Elk.

During both the Gray and Oregon fires, first responders faced extreme fire conditions and rapid fire growth, compounded by dramatic, wind-driven shifts in fire progression. Within a chaotic 24-hour window, thousands of residents across multiple communities were suddenly thrust into extreme danger, including vulnerable individuals such as residents of a long-term care facility with severe physical and cognitive disabilities who required extra assistance to evacuate. Tragically, two civilian lives were lost during the initial hours of the fires. Despite these circumstances, the swift and coordinated efforts of emergency responders ensured the safe evacuation of thousands of residents, underscoring key factors and lessons learned from these and previous incidents.

  • Recent coordination and training efforts between first responder agencies, including the Sheriff’s Department and the Washington State Patrol, contributed to more successful coordination and execution of response efforts during the Gray and Oregon Road Fires. Opportunities for cross-training and relationship-building outside of fire seasons significantly improved the coordination between agencies.
  • During the evacuation process, several challenges compromised safety and efficiency. Incorrect information about evacuation areas broadcasted by local news led to confusion and unsafe evacuations. Additionally, there was a lack of clarity about whether to shelter in place or evacuate, especially for facilities designed to withstand fires. This resulted in incorrect evacuation notices and unnecessary evacuations, increasing risk. Furthermore, local news broadcasted unofficial evacuation orders, causing some citizens to evacuate into areas directly threatened by fires. These issues underscore the need for accurate communication and clear, pre-established evacuation protocols.

I'm glad that you are alive.

Britt Morgan, Sheriff Deputy, Spokane County, notified a resident and led them through smoke and flames to a safer location during the Oregon fire.

00:00
/
00:00

Sherriff Deputy Morgan's exchange with an evacuated resident during the Oregon Fire evacuations.

  • Throughout the evacuation process, numerous incidents occurred where first responders found themselves surrounded by fire conditions that made it unsafe to travel in any direction. In these instances, responders made decisions to seek refuge within the fire area until conditions allowed for safe travel out.
  • In one community impacted by the Gray Fire, the  Silver Lake Camp and Retreat Center  had a one-way in-and-out road system that resulted in a dangerous situation for first responders and community members who became surrounded by fire, leading first responders to shelter in place with residents due to concerns about safely evacuating.
  • Both the Sheriff’s Department and the Washington State Patrol played crucial roles in ordering, directing, and executing evacuations, with officers effectively coordinating with responders to evacuate residents in multiple communities just before they were threatened by fire. Despite the successful evacuation process, law enforcement officers faced immediate danger from the fire during evacuations, highlighting the lack of specific training in wildland fire evacuations and the absence of personal protective equipment typically used by wildland firefighters.
  • Amid rapidly evolving fire conditions, the three-stage evacuation warning system resulted in the immediate issuance of Level 3 (go now) notifications, bypassing the issuance of the first two levels, due to the rapid progression of the fire. It was observed by responders that this approach led to clear communications to evacuees, which in turn resulted in a high degree of compliance and a very effective evacuation process.
  • Spokane Regional Emergency Communications Center (SRECC) played a vital role in notifying citizens of the need to evacuate and disseminating repopulation notifications. An ad hoc, scalable, web-based evacuation map was developed by SRECC providing citizens with important evacuation information and aided in their decision-making process. This system has since been adopted as a standing  webtool  for use for future evacuations in Spokane County.

  

Nathan Jeffries on Spokane County Emergency Evacuation Notifications

 

 

You train, you exercise, and you think you are ready...when it happens, it's just different. Being able to effectively do your job is huge.

Chandra Fox, Emergency Management Director, Emergency Management Division, Spokane County

The challenges and successes observed concerning evacuations during the Gray and Oregon Road Fires raise the following questions for further consideration:

1. Do all agencies participate in fire simulations involving all affected parties, including dispatch, law enforcement, and emergency managers, to ensure seamless coordination during evacuations?

2. What mitigations are in place to ensure effective communication with law enforcement officers during evacuations and account for their location?

3. Do law enforcement officers receive training on fire behavior and other risks associated with working near active fires, and do they attend Fire Safety Refreshers to stay updated?

4. Do law enforcement officers train on entrapment avoidance, wear wildfire personal protection equipment (PPE) such as fire-retardant clothing and gloves, and carry fire shelters, given the dangers they face during evacuations?

5. Do wildland response agencies adequately train on evacuation tactics, fire suppression tactics in the WUI, and conducting structure triage? Arere there other tactics that could be explored for implementation?

6. In critical situations, such as during rapidly advancing fires, might it be safer for individuals to shelter in place in certain locations rather than attempting to escape?

7. What is the order of priority for evacuation directions when conditions and information are constantly changing? How do citizens know whether to follow pre-planned actions or new directions during an evacuation?

Compared to other high-risk occupations, we have some pretty amazing cultural norms—many of them predating the inflection point of 1994. I believe our hard scrabble, handle-it, find a way ingenuity enables us to move mountains. And sometimes, the mountain is us.

Travis Dolston, Wildland Fire Lessons Learned Center, "Bent and Broken" 2024 Spring Issue Two More Chains

When faced with a rapidly advancing fire threatening loved ones, neighbors, and community members, responders must grapple with complex decisions regarding acceptable levels of risk. Understanding that different agencies operate with varying risk tolerances is crucial in effectively managing emergency situations.  All responders may have different risk acceptance thresholds based on their experience and familiarity with the land and people. In the Incident Command System (ICS), it's imperative to recognize and accommodate these diverse risk tolerances.

Turndown protocols should be established to empower responders to decline assignments or situations they deem unsafe while identifying alternative roles or tasks they can safely undertake. Ultimately, the overarching risk management philosophy revolves around the principle of life safety. Responders may choose to risk a little to save a little when faced with minimal threat but may be willing to risk more when the stakes are higher, opting to risk a lot to save a lot. This balanced approach ensures that responders prioritize the preservation of life while effectively managing the inherent risks of emergency response operations.

 

Interagency Coordinated Effort

The creation of state mobilization protocols in response to Firestorm 1991 in Spokane County marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of wildfire management in Washington State. In the aftermath of the devastating fire that ravaged the region, state officials recognized the urgent need for a coordinated and efficient response mechanism to address large-scale wildfire incidents. Firestorm, with its unprecedented scale and ferocity at the time, exposed significant gaps and challenges in the state's ability to effectively manage such emergencies. The rapid spread of fire, coupled with limited resources and coordination among agencies, underscored the necessity for a more robust and centralized approach to wildfire response.

In response to these challenges, state officials collaborated with local agencies, emergency responders, and stakeholders to develop comprehensive state mobilization protocols. These protocols established clear guidelines and procedures for coordinating resources, personnel, and response efforts during large-scale wildfire incidents.

Key components of the state mobilization system included:

1.       Resource Coordination: Establishing centralized coordination centers to manage the allocation and deployment of firefighting resources, including personnel, equipment, and aircraft, to areas of greatest need.

2.       Command Structure: Implementing standardized incident command structures, such as the Incident Command System (ICS), to ensure clear lines of authority and communication among responding agencies and personnel.

3.       Mutual Aid Agreements: Formalizing mutual aid agreements among jurisdictions and agencies to facilitate the rapid sharing of resources and personnel during emergencies, ensuring a coordinated and collaborative response.

Through the implementation of these state mobilization protocols, Washington State significantly enhanced its capacity to respond to large-scale wildfire incidents, mitigate risks, and protecting lives and property. The lessons learned from Firestorm 1991 paved the way for continuous improvement and innovation in wildfire management practices, ensuring that the state remains resilient and prepared in the face of future wildfire threats.

It's really at its core, it's Fire Chief to Fire Chief or [one] requesting Fire Chief to many Fire Chiefs to get the assistance they need to protect their jurisdiction. 

Bill Slosson, Fire Marshal, Washington State Patrol (WSP) on the Washington State Mobilization Program

The introduction of the State Mobilization pre-positioning in 2023 in Washington State marked a historic first, proving pivotal in resourcing the Gray and Oregon Road Fires and other fires across Eastern Washington on the same day. Strategically pre-positioning firefighting resources in advance, made swift and effective action more possible for responding to these incidents. This proactive approach underscored the value of coordinated planning and resource allocation in wildfire response.

I was bracing myself for a mass casualty.

Jill Jones, Former Dispatch, Northeast Washington Interagency Communications Center

Northeast Washington Interagency Communication Center (NEWICC)

The Northeast Washington Interagency Communication Center (NEWICC) is a regional coordination hub that facilitates communication and coordination among various agencies involved in emergency response and management in Northeast Washington State. It serves as a central point for dispatching resources, managing incidents, and coordinating firefighting efforts across multiple jurisdictions and agencies, including federal, state, local, and tribal entities. NEWICC plays a crucial role during wildfire seasons and other emergencies by ensuring efficient resource allocation and effective communication among responders.

Spokane Regional Emergency Communications Center (SRECC):

The Spokane Regional Emergency Communications Center (SRECC) is the backbone of emergency communication in Spokane County. It serves as the central hub for dispatching emergency services, including law enforcement, fire, and medical responders, and it plays a crucial role in coordinating responses to various emergencies, including wildfires, natural disasters, and medical emergencies. SRECC ensures efficient and effective communication between first responders and the public, helping to save lives and protect property in times of crisis. The coordination between SRECC and emergency managers ensured efficient communication and coordination during the Gray and Oregon Road Fires. This system facilitated timely evacuation orders from emergency managers to 911 dispatchers, who then relayed critical information to residents, ensuring their safety during the fires.

Duty Officers & Area Coordinators:

Duty officers and area coordinators play crucial roles in incident management and response efforts. Duty officers are responsible for overseeing operations within a specific area or jurisdiction. They serve as the central point of contact for all communication and coordination related to incidents occurring within their assigned area. Duty officers coordinate resources, monitor incident status, and ensure that response efforts are executed according to established protocols and objectives.

Area coordinators are tasked with managing resources and operations within a designated geographic area. They work closely with duty officers and incident commanders to assess the situation, allocate resources effectively, and address any challenges or emerging issues. Area coordinators play a vital role in coordinating response activities, managing logistics, and facilitating communication between various stakeholders involved in the incident response.

Together, duty officers and area coordinators provide critical support and leadership in incident management, helping to ensure a coordinated and effective response to emergencies and disasters. Their expertise and coordination efforts are essential for protecting lives, property, and natural resources during times of crisis.

As wildfires escalate, even resource-rich areas like Spokane County face a tipping point where resource drawdown becomes inevitable. The increasing demand during prolonged incidents necessitates careful consideration for resource drawdown protocols. Maintaining minimum staffing levels and implementing backfill strategies become imperative to sustain response efforts effectively.

Resource allocation played a pivotal role in responding to subsequent incidents effectively. Spokane County's robust response and intentional coordination were instrumental in managing the situation. However, if a third fire had occurred, resource allocation would have been more challenging. The finite nature of resources underscores the importance of strategic planning and efficient utilization to mitigate the risk of resource depletion during prolonged incidents.

I’ve been fighting fire around here [DNR] for thirty-two years and a few years before that with the Forest Service. Those days [August 18 th  and August 19 th ] aren’t a mystery, they turn into really bad days.

Andrew Stenbeck, State Lands Manager, Washington State Department of Natural Resources & Incident Commander, NE Washington Interagency Type 3 Incident Management Team

Local Incident Management Teams:

Many members of Type 3 and Complex Incident Management Teams (IMTs) have local ties and pre-existing relationships. The northeast region of Washington state supports three organized Type 3 Interagency Incident Management Teams with participants from local government, WA Fire Service, and state and federal agencies.  Additionally, resources from the greater Spokane area heavily support the eight Northwest Geographic Area complex incident management teams. This interagency response framework directly benefits the local area where fire leadership has experience working with IMTs, familiarity with the process, understanding of local agency values, and vital relationships that facilitate managing complex situations collaboratively. The integration of local resources into IMTs facilitates a swift and robust response time.  Fires can have a Type 3 IMT in place within a few hours following an order or quick integration of local members from Complex IMTs, bolstering the immediate firefight and providing relief for initial attack resources, increasing local response capacity.

 Private Landowners:

Landowner resources, including industrial timber companies, ranchers, and other private landowners, play a significant role in wildfire response efforts. Even if not formally asked to assist, landowners are often involved in firefighting activities. Safely integrating their help into the overall operation requires careful coordination and communication.

The Revised Code of Washington (RCW) allows landowners to participate in wildfire response efforts. When their efforts are coordinated and integrated with the Incident Management Team (IMT), it can be successful. However, challenges arise when landowners want to take independent action and do not follow the direction of the IMT.

Building relationships with landowners before a fire is crucial. It is essential to encourage coordination and integration of private landowners with the response efforts, emphasizing the importance of following IMT directions for safety and effectiveness.

One potential pitfall is when landowners undertake work independently and later request funds for their efforts. It's important to tread carefully in these situations and ensure that any financial support is provided in accordance with established protocols and agreements. Effective communication and collaboration with landowners can enhance wildfire response efforts and contribute to the overall success of the operation. Ultimately, strong relationships ensure a unified response, maximizing the community's ability to combat wildfires.

The following questions are raised for further consideration:

  1. Does your agency have an effective wildfire mitigation and preparedness outreach program in place with mechanisms for hiring and training local resources?
  2. Are all responder and recovery entities (law enforcement, utility and infrastructure providers, NGOs, special interest groups, etc.) adequately prepared and coordinated to respond effectively to disasters in your community?
  3. Have relationships been established and nurtured before the "bad day" occurs, ensuring coordination and collaboration among stakeholders?

These questions highlight the importance of proactive measures, robust partnerships across agency and peer levels, and preparedness initiatives to enhance resilience and response capabilities in the face of escalating wildfire threats. Communication, collaboration, coordination, and relationships are integral in responding to all disasters.

Operations occur at the speed of trust.

Marine Corps Four-Star General and Former Secretary of Defense (2017-2019), James Mattis

We knew the wind shift was coming, so we started flanking to the south, kinda parallel to it. So, when it [wind] shifted, it wouldn’t necessarily run into more populous areas, and try to contain it to the east.

Andrew Stenbeck, State Lands Manager, Washington State Department of Natural Resources & Incident Commander, NE Washington Interagency Type 3 Incident Management Team

Wildland Urban Interface Strategy & Tactics

Firefighters face a range of operating landscapes, conditions, and risks that require different strategies and tactics. These ranged from wildland,  intermix ,  Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) , and urban landscapes. Effective response in these landscapes requires specific training and equipment and may require reprioritization of incident objectives based on the evolving situation and available resources. For example, in fires occurring in the WUI, where the priority values are structures and infrastructure, firefighting efforts will prioritize structure protection using tactics such as creating defensible space and deploying fire engines and crews for point protection. In urban fires, firefighters focus on extinguishing the fire and preventing its spread to neighboring buildings.

Wildland and fire district response agencies typically have different specialized training and equipment capabilities that are commensurate with their jurisdictions, ranging from wildland to urban areas. This may make them more effective at responding in one or the other of these landscapes, but often not both. In the Oregon Road and Gray Fires, increasing amounts of intermix and WUI landscapes given current development trends frequently required both types of agencies to respond in landscapes and conditions that stretched the limits of their preparedness.

We have fewer opportunities to see each other on the basis of mutual need as isolation grows and it becomes easier to associate only with folks like ourselves. It shows up in the ways that we think about solving common problems, including cross-parcel wildfire risk mitigation in the WUI.

David Burchfield, Fire Adapted Communities (FAC) Learning Network Affiliate

The transition between wildland and urban areas is becoming increasingly blurred due to the rise in home density among forested areas. This phenomenon, often referred to as the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI), presents unique challenges for wildfire management and firefighting efforts.

As residential areas and communities expand into previously undeveloped areas, the boundary between urban and wild landscapes becomes increasingly complex. This intermingling of homes and natural vegetation creates a mosaic that presents unique challenges for firefighters. They must navigate the blurred lines between densely populated areas and rugged wildlands, contending with variable population densities, diverse topography, and increasing values at risk, including drinking water sources, utilities, and ecosystem services.

The blurred boundary between wildland and urban areas has several implications:

1. Increased Fire Risk: The presence of homes and structures in forested areas increases the risk of wildfires spreading to communities, posing a greater threat to lives, property, and natural resources.

2. Health and safety: Hazardous materials and increasing exposure to toxic gases that result from the fire burning man-made fuels lead to increased public and responder risk due to air quality (smoke etc.)

3. Complexity of Response: Fire suppression in the WUI requires a multifaceted approach that incorporates both wildland firefighting techniques and structural firefighting tactics, identifying the appropriate apparatus and equipment for the task. Firefighters must adapt their strategies to address the unique challenges posed by the interface between wildland and urban environments.

4. Community Preparedness and Recovery: Residents living in WUI areas must be vigilant and prepared for wildfires, implementing measures to mitigate fire risk around their homes and having evacuation plans in place.

5. Collaborative Management: Effective management of WUI areas requires collaboration between wildland fire agencies, structural fire departments, land-use planners, and community stakeholders to implement mitigation measures, land-use policies, and firefighting strategies that address the complex interface between wildland and urban environments.

Effective and safe fire response in intermix and WUI landscapes requires experience, training and equipment that prepares firefighters to carryout firefighting activities in both wildland and urban conditions. Structured interagency training opportunities will minimize the gaps throughout the wildland fire response framework.

As the boundary between wildland and urban areas continues to blur and transitions to a more continuous gradient, it is essential for communities, policymakers, and emergency responders to work together to address the unique challenges posed by wildfires in WUI areas.

Effective and safe fire response in intermix and WUI landscapes requires training, experience, and equipment that prepares firefighters to carryout firefighting activities in both wildland and urban settings. Intentional and structured interagency training opportunities will minimize the gaps throughout the wildland fire response framework. By implementing proactive measures and fostering collaboration, communities can reduce the risk of wildfires and enhance their resilience in the face of increasingly complex fire environments.

The importance of ingress and egress for public and emergency responder safety during wildfires, particularly in the context of wildfires like the Oregon Road and Gray Fires, cannot be overstated. Ingress and egress routes facilitate evacuation and access to the affected areas for firefighting and rescue efforts.

IIn the case of the Oregon Road and Gray Fires, differences in the availability and condition of ingress and egress routes may have influenced the response and evacuation strategies. The ingress and egress routes for the Oregon Road Fire were more accessible or less obstructed compared to the Gray Fire, allowing for smoother evacuation procedures and easier access for firefighting resources. Conversely, challenges with ingress and egress routes during the Gray Fire posed significant obstacles for residents and responders. Narrow roads and limited evacuation routes hindered evacuation efforts and slowed down the response of firefighting personnel.

 Understanding the dynamics of traffic flow of ingress and egress routes in different wildfire scenarios is essential for emergency planning and response.  It underscores the importance of proactive measures such as designating and maintaining clear evacuation routes, developing and implementing road safety protocols, and conducting community outreach to ensure residents are aware of evacuation procedures and routes.

In assessing community ingress and egress, several key factors must be considered to ensure the safety and efficiency of evacuation and emergency response. Wide, clear roads are essential for smooth evacuation and emergency vehicle access. These roads allow for the quick and unobstructed movement of both residents and responders, which is crucial during a wildfire or other emergencies.

Alternate routes are necessary to prevent bottlenecks and provide options if main routes are compromised. Having multiple paths for evacuation ensures that residents can leave the area swiftly and safely, even if one route becomes impassable. Well-marked roads and clearly indicated routes help guide people to safety during chaotic situations.

The impact of road networks on fire response tactics is significant and are identified as a  WUI Watchout  situation.  Narrow roads limit maneuverability and slow response times, sometimes necessitating "rescue drive-by" evacuations where fire crews may not be able to stop and assist every resident. Infrastructure such as powerlines or bridges with load limits or other road restrictions can further complicate evacuation and response efforts. These factors can create hazards and impede the movement of large emergency vehicles.

Conversely, well-designed roads facilitate strategic resource deployment, better defense of properties, and efficient firefighting. Properly planned road networks enable responders to position equipment and personnel effectively, improving their ability to protect communities. Ultimately, effective fire management in WUI in part hinges on adequate  planning, ingress/egress routes, robust WUI tactics training, and proper structure triage to ensure safety and effectiveness. 

Consider these questions concerning the challenges of prioritizing resources during emergencies in the WUI:

1. Are you prepared to make difficult decisions about which homes or individuals to prioritize for assistance when time and resources are limited?

2. What tools and training do we need to better equip responders to make informed decisions in high-pressure, complex situations?

3. How can we enhance our ability to assess and respond to evolving fire conditions effectively in a more urban setting?

4. What can communities do to prepare for a wildfire with their current road systems, do you know another way out?

These questions highlight the importance of preparedness, training, and continuous improvement in emergency response efforts, underscoring the need for proactive measures to address the complexities of prioritization during crises.

Wildfire Interactions with Fuels Reduction Treatments

Fuels reduction treatments are strategies aimed at managing and reducing the amount and arrangement of combustible materials (fuels) in forests and other landscapes to decrease the intensity and spread of wildfires. These treatments are critical for enhancing forest health, protecting communities, and maintaining ecological balance. As of the latest available data, a total of  12,750 acres  of fuels reduction treatments have been conducted in Spokane County since 2017. This encompasses various methods such as thinning, prescribed burning, mechanical treatments, and other strategies to manage and reduce wildfire risks. The Oregon Road and Gray Fires interacted with over 125 treatments including private and state land.

Example of fire behavior seen during the Oregon fire.

In 2019, the Washington legislature directed DNR to prioritize forest health treatments that have a dual benefit of (1) improving forest health and (2) providing strategic opportunities for fire suppression (HB1784). DNR has been funding treatments with this dual benefit consideration long before this legislative direction, but HB1168 provided additional funding to develop an analytical framework and implement more of these projects across all-lands.  The Wildfire Interaction with Treatments and Suppression survey (WITS)  was developed to gain insight on how wildland fire operations strategically use treatments during fire suppression, as well as capture impressions of how fire behavior may have been changed by the treatment. This survey intends to capture anecdotal perceptions of the impact and functionality of individual treatments as they encountered wildfire. Tactical decisions during suppression are made quickly in the field based on local knowledge and firefighter expertise. Tracking the utility of these treatments can be difficult due to unique geography and weather conditions, the fast pace of decision-making, and frequent staff changes. WITS aims to provide a space to collect these data quickly and efficiently for busy fire staff.

Some federal agencies use a similar framework known as  Fuel Treatment Effectiveness Monitoring (FTEM) . The FTEM framework helps in assessing and monitoring the effectiveness of various fuel reduction treatments, such as prescribed burns, mechanical thinning, and other forest management practices aimed at reducing wildfire risk and improving ecosystem health. The framework typically involves evaluating parameters such as fuel load reduction, changes in fire behavior potential, ecological impacts, and effectiveness in achieving management objectives. This is focused more on the ecological impacts, whereas WITS is focused on the utility during suppression.

Survey Findings:

  • Effect on Fire Behavior: Many surveys reported that treatments positively influenced fire behavior. This included reducing fire intensity, flame length, spotting, and transitioning fire from crown to surface fires.
  • Benefits to Suppression Operations: The treatments were reported to provide several operational benefits, including easier and safer working conditions, accomplishing work with fewer resources, reducing mop-up efforts, and allowing for direct attack strategies.
  • Factors Influencing Effectiveness: Observations highlighted that well maintained treatments, particularly those with mechanical means or grazing, showed greater benefits. However, treatments located in extreme fire weather conditions or areas with uncharacteristic fire behavior may not provide consistent benefits.
  • Impact on Values at Risk: Treatments were noted to have helped protect numerous residences, businesses, agriculture, timber resources, and municipalities. This protection was especially pronounced in areas with well-spaced timber that had been previously harvested.

Challenges and Considerations:

  • Variable Effectiveness: The effectiveness of treatments varied based on factors like maintenance level, treatment type, and alignment relative to fire direction.
  • Extreme Fire Conditions: Treatments do not guarantee protection, especially under extreme fire weather conditions.

Implications and Recommendations:

  • The survey findings suggest that strategic forest health treatments can significantly enhance wildfire suppression efforts by reducing fire intensity, providing opportunities for engagement, and protecting critical infrastructure and resources.
  • Recommendations include prioritizing funding for treatments that have demonstrated dual benefits for both ecological health and wildfire suppression.

The insights from the WITS survey underscore the critical importance of strategic forest management practices in mitigating wildfire risks. Fuels reduction treatments can significantly reduce the overall burn severity during wildfires and provide safer and easier points for firefighters to engage in suppression. By strategically thinning forests and reducing fuel loads, these treatments create barriers that slow down the spread of fires and creates tactical advantage for suppression activities. This not only protects natural resources but also enhances the safety of firefighters and facilitates post-fire recovery efforts.

While the WITS survey focused on treatments in forested areas around homes (zone 3), it's crucial to emphasize the importance of  defensible space  and home hardening in  zones 1 and 2.  Creating defensible space by clearing vegetation and using fire-resistant materials around homes can greatly increase their ability to withstand wildfires. These proactive measures are essential in improving the defensibility and survivability of structures during fire events. Despite preparation and mitigation efforts, it's important to recognize that under extreme fire behavior conditions, even well-prepared homes may still be at risk of damage. Extreme weather conditions can create intense fire behavior that challenges even the most robust fire mitigation strategies.

The findings from the WITS survey provide valuable data that can inform future decisions on where and how to implement treatments. By focusing resources on areas where treatments have shown to be most effective, such as reducing burn severity and protecting critical infrastructure, forest managers can maximize the impact of their efforts in wildfire-prone regions.

In conclusion, proactive forest management practices, coupled with homeowner actions like defensible space creation and home hardening, play crucial roles in reducing wildfire risks and enhancing community resilience. Continued research and implementation of effective strategies are essential in mitigating the increasingly severe impacts of wildfires in fire-prone regions.

When we talk about property losses to wildfire we are talking about more than financial investments, land-based economies and bottom lines: we are talking about people's lives as they are framed by those concerns. We are talking about cherished homeplaces, dreams demolished, and communities forever changed or erased.

David Burchfield, Fire Adapted Communities (FAC) Learning Network Affiliate

Call to Action: Prepare Your Home and Community for Wildfire Resilience

Wildfires are a recurring threat, and preparing your home and community is crucial to reducing risks and enhancing resilience. Here are actionable steps you can take:

1. Building Materials and Design: Use fire-resistant building materials and design principles to harden your home against wildfire. Ensure roofs, walls, windows, and decks are built or upgraded with fire-resistant materials.

2.  Landscape and Hardscape: Create defensible space around your home by removing flammable vegetation and using hardscaping (like gravel or stone) in strategic areas. Maintain a buffer zone that breaks up fuel continuity and reduces the likelihood of fire spreading to your property.

3. Fuel Continuity Management: Regularly maintain your property by trimming trees, removing dead vegetation, and keeping grass short. This reduces the fuel available for a fire to spread.

4. Smoke Preparedness:  Learn how smoke can impact your health,  what you can do  to reduce its effects, and how to find  air quality updates  and recommendations to stay safe.

5. Get Involved with Community Programs:

6.  Educate Yourself and Others: Engage with resources like the Living with Wildfire and learning networks like  Fire Adapted Communities Learning Network  and  Washington Fire Adapted Communities Learning Network .  Understand that wildfire events are not a matter of if, but when.

Key Question: Is my home or property prepared to survive a wildfire? Consider what cooperative mitigation actions could be implemented in your community to collectively lower wildfire risk for yourself and your neighbors.

We need to create a system of response and recovery processes that adapts to the novel forms of disaster in a post-fire world. 

Collin Haffey, WDNR Post-Fire Recovery Manager

Explore options for technical assistance and funding available for post-fire recovery. Recovery starts the moment the fire starts. Prioritizing wildfire preparedness and

Smoke Preparedness: Learn how smoke can impact your health,  what you can do  to reduce its effects and how to fin  air quality updates  and recommendations to stay safe.

By taking proactive steps to prepare your home and engage with your community, you contribute to a safer environment for all residents. Wildfires are a shared challenge, and collective action is essential in mitigating their impacts and fostering resilient communities.

Medical Lake Gray Road Fire Recovery

Acknowledgements

We extend our sincere gratitude to all the agencies and individuals involved in creating this Facilitated Learning Analysis. Your dedication and expertise have been invaluable in shaping this assessment, ensuring its quality and relevance. Thank you for your hard work and commitment to enhancing learning and development.

Authors and Contributors:

Author, Jessica Walston, Northeast Washington Forest Resilience Planner & Monitoring Coordinator, Forest Resilience Division, WDNR

StoryMap Designer, Rose Beaton, Community Resilience Coordinator, Wildfire Management Division, WDNR

Facilitated Learning Analysis Group

Authors and Contributors

Spokesman Review Article

GOES Satellite Imagery NWS Spokane *should image move to wind shift*

 A cross section through a cold-front occlusion shows the warm air having been lifted above the two colder air masses. At the surface, cold air is displacing cool air. The weather and winds associated with the frontal passage are similar to those with a cold front ( NWCG ).