Just weeks before devastating wildfires hit, Spokane practiced a mass evacuation – the drill paid off
Evacuations in the face of a wildfire, hurricane or other disaster are stressful and can take more time than you might expect. Here’s why practice helps and what to think about.
Spokane, Washington, conducted a mass evacuation drill just weeks before a series of devastating wildfires hit the area, and officials say the practice paid off. In late April 2026, the city organized the drill in the Eagle Ridge neighborhood, near areas that would later be threatened by fire. Over 950 vehicles participated in the exercise, representing a significant increase in engagement from the previous year's drill.
The drill proved invaluable in helping the city identify evacuation bottlenecks, determine the most effective warning methods, and address other challenges. Residents also became more aware of emergency procedures and preparedness through the event, signing up for alerts and familiarizing themselves with evacuation routes.
When the wildfires erupted on Aug. 1, 2026, the city had already gained critical insights from the drill. They rapidly deployed traffic assistance and raised fire-weather warnings, enabling efficient evacuation and shelter management. The city's director of emergency management, Sarah Nuss, emphasized the positive feedback they received, particularly regarding preparedness and increased awareness of wildfire evacuation procedures.
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