Washington governor seeks federal emergency aid for six counties and three tribes

Governor Ferguson said the state has requested an emergency declaration and direct federal assistance for multiple counties and tribal nations affected by the fires, and that FEMA had already begun staging resources in Washington in anticipation of approval. "They are, as we speak, moving resources into Washington state in anticipation of that potentially being granted," he said.

Ferguson listed the six counties included in the request—Spokane, Stevens, Chelan, Okanogan, Yakima and Ferry—and said the request also covers three tribal nations: Spokane, Colville and Yakima. He said requested federal aid would include search-and-rescue teams, debris removal, medical assistance, temporary sheltering and emergency power such as generators. The governor said timing for a formal federal declaration is set by the federal government and urged patience while officials continue coordination with FEMA.