Suspect arrested in connection with Spokane County wildfire

Authorities say a man has been arrested on an arson charge in connection with one of the fires.

(NBC)- Wildfires continue to devastate Washington state, where officials say the destruction in Spokane County has become the worst natural disaster in the state’s history.

Spokane Mayor Lisa Brown called the fires “our worst natural disaster,” while Governor Bob Ferguson said the impact on residents has been “truly profound.”

Aerial images show entire neighborhoods reduced to ashes as three major wildfires continue burning across Spokane County.

Authorities say a man has been arrested on an arson charge in connection with one of the fires.

Since igniting Saturday, the fires have scorched thousands of acres, destroyed hundreds of structures and forced tens of thousands of people to evacuate.

Governor Ferguson noted that some first responders have been forced to evacuate their own homes while continuing to help others.

The destruction extends beyond Spokane County. Officials say 17 major wildfires have burned more than 260,000 acres across Washington, with some ranchers forced to move cattle to safety as flames spread.

Fire crews continue battling the blazes as evacuation orders remain in effect for many communities.