Trump approves FEMA relief for Spokane wildfires

Kai Uyehara, The Seattle Times on Aug 4, 2026

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SEATTLE — Federal disaster assistance for those affected by the Spokane wildfires was made available Tuesday by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

President Donald Trump approved an emergency declaration for Washington state, authorizing FEMA to coordinate all federal disaster relief efforts and use its resources to “alleviate the impact of the emergency,” the agency said in a news release.

Under the emergency declaration, the federal government would take on 75% of eligible costs. The funding is available for Chelan, Ferry, Okanogan, Spokane, Stevens and Yakima counties and the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation, Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation and Spokane Tribe of Indians.

Gov. Bob Ferguson and Washington's congressional delegation have been lobbying the Trump administration for federal support. Ferguson said he spoke with Trump on Sunday to convey the need for help, and that the president expressed his concern for the people of Washington during this difficult time.

Ferguson said Monday that he sought FEMA assistance to support search and rescue, debris removal, medical supplies and assistance, temporary shelters and emergency power.

On Saturday and Sunday, FEMA had previously authorized using federal funds to assist with firefighting costs for the Old Trails, Fairview and Autumn Lane fires in Spokane County, as well as the Sinlahekin fire in Okanogan County, fulfilling requests made by the state.

The Sunday grants are specific to firefighting and don’t give assistance for infrastructure damage or for individual homes and businesses affected by the fire.