Spokane Residents Return to Burned Neighborhoods Amid Ongoing Hazard Cleanup

In the wake of the Old Trails Fire that razed large sections of Spokane, most displaced residents have been permitted to go back to their neighborhoods, though city emergency management director Sarah Nuss cautions that a hazardous-materials situation persists. The federal Environmental Protection Agency has started the initial cleanup of toxic waste, including lithium-ion batteries, lead-paint siding and exploded propane tanks, a task that may take months or even years.

Authorities lack the legal power to bar re-entry, so they are focusing on educating returnees about potential dangers and documenting risks for each property. Survivors like Melissa and Chris Matthews describe their ruined homes as resembling a bomb site and anticipate a multi-year rebuilding timeline. Experts such as Purdue University environmental engineer Andrew Whelton stress the importance of thorough soil testing, while the city continues to monitor water quality and advise residents to use protective equipment during the ongoing recovery.