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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Fires are now largest in state history

Associated Press
The massive fire burning in north-central Washington is now the largest in state history. The Okanogan Complex of wildfires has surpassed last year’s Carlton Complex blazes. Fire spokesman Rick Isaacson said Monday the Okanogan Complex was measured overnight at just over 400 square miles, slightly more than the Carlton fires, which also burned in Okanogan County. The latest group of fires grew by more than 26 square miles Sunday and is expected to spread even more in coming days. Isaacson called the record unfortunate and notes it’s only Aug. 24, meaning the fire could burn for several more months. Officials are still trying to determine how many homes and other structures have been burned. About 1,250 people are battling the fires. Last week, three firefighters were killed and four injured near Twisp, Washington.