The Upriver Fire, which broke out on the eastern fringe of Spokane on June 16, 2026, has been partially contained after a dramatic week that claimed one life, displaced more than 11,000 residents, and destroyed at least 15 structures. As of Sunday, June 21, the fire stands at approximately 213 acres with 60 percent containment.
Fire Origin and Rapid Spread
The fire ignited in the Beacon Hill area roughly one mile east of Spokane city limits during a period of high winds and single-digit relative humidity. Wind-driven fire behavior caused the blaze to race through the neighborhood before firefighters could establish effective control lines. Within hours of ignition, Spokane County Emergency Management issued Level 3 (Go Now!) evacuation orders covering the area bounded by Bigelow Gulch Road to the north, Upriver Drive to the south, Northwood Road to the east, and Argonne Road to the west.
Casualties and Structural Damage
One person died in connection with the fire. At least 15 structures were destroyed, with additional properties damaged. The American Red Cross Northwest Region opened an emergency shelter at Spokane Valley United Methodist Church to assist displaced residents. Avista Utilities also shut off power in portions of north Spokane during the height of the firefighting effort as a precautionary measure.
Current Status
By Friday, June 19, the Upriver Fire had reached 39 percent containment as crews from the Washington Department of Natural Resources Northeast Region worked to strengthen firelines. By Sunday evening, containment had improved to 60 percent. Evacuation levels were downgraded, with Level 1 (Be Ready) notices remaining in effect for portions of the fire area. Residents should continue monitoring communications from the Northeast Washington Fire Information and Spokane Regional Emergency Communications.
Recovery Efforts
Spokane County Emergency Management and the Red Cross are coordinating recovery resources for affected residents. Those who lost structures are encouraged to contact their insurance providers and register with FEMA for potential disaster assistance. Air quality monitors in the Spokane region continue tracking smoke conditions from this and other nearby fires burning across eastern Washington.
The Upriver Fire serves as a sobering reminder of the wildfire risk facing communities along the wildland-urban interface in the Spokane area, particularly as the broader 2026 fire season accelerates well ahead of historical averages.