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.
In late April 2026, Spokane conducted a large-scale evacuation drill in the Eagle Ridge neighborhood, just months before the city faced three devastating wildfires in early August of the same year. The exercise involved over 950 vehicles, nearly three times the number that participated in the first drill the previous year. Spokane's Director of Emergency Management, Sarah Nuss, and the Spokane Fire Department led the drill, which provided valuable insights into the city's evacuation response capabilities.
The drill revealed bottlenecks in the evacuation routes, highlighted the effectiveness of certain warning methods, and underscored the importance of residents familiarizing themselves with evacuation procedures. As a geoscientist conducting research on disaster response at Boise State University, the researcher assisted with the drill and observed its benefits firsthand.
Following the drill, Spokane officials put their lessons into practice when the wildfires struck on Aug. 1, 2026. The city quickly amplified fire-weather warnings, deployed officers and National Guard troops to direct traffic and open emergency shelters, and ensured that residents were aware of evacuation procedures. The drills had played a crucial role in preparing the city for the disaster, allowing for a more efficient and organized evacuation process.
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