A severe windstorm swept through the Spokane region, causing nearly 100,000 power outages, record gusts at Spokane International Airport, and damage including downed trees and power lines. Utility crews are assessing damage and working to restore power, while residents are advised to report hazards cautiously. The storm is moving into western Montana, with wind gusts reaching up to 75 mph.
San Diego State advances to the NCAA Tournament's round of 16 after a dominant 85-57 victory over Yale in Spokane, setting up a rematch with UConn. The Aztecs, who have a strong history in Spokane, will face the No. 1 overall seed in the Sweet 16 for the second consecutive year. Their impressive performance included a season-high 13 three-pointers and solid defensive play, propelling them to their fourth appearance in the Sweet 16.
A young child in Washington state was tragically killed on Halloween night after being attacked by the family's dog. The police arrived at the scene to find the boy had succumbed to his injuries. The dog, which had been severely injured in the parents' attempt to protect their child, was euthanized. The incident has left the community devastated, as neighbors remember the energetic and kind-hearted boy.
Fast-moving wildfires have swept through Washington state, burning homes and forcing thousands of people to evacuate in rural communities. The Gray Fire near Spokane has consumed 4.7 square miles of land, with evacuation orders issued for Medical Lake and nearby areas. Some homes and buildings have been destroyed, and National Guard troops have been called in to assist with evacuations. Another blaze, the Oregon Road Fire, has prompted evacuations as well. Dry conditions, gusty winds, and a lack of rain have contributed to the rapid spread of the fires. Multiple aircraft and firefighters are being deployed to combat the Gray Fire, which has led to the closure of Interstate 90.
Sonora Smart Dodd, daughter of Civil War veteran and devoted dad William Jackson Smart, founded Father's Day in 1910 in Spokane, Washington, inspired by her father's example. Dodd was a businessperson, poet, Chicago artist, and Hollywood fashion-maker, but mostly a devoted daughter. She championed Father's Day for six decades before it received federal recognition in 1970. Dodd's greatest legacy is felt on the third Sunday of each June, when millions of children around the nation take time to honor their fathers.
Colorado Springs has emerged as the top destination for recent college grads starting out, according to a recent Zillow study. The analysis identifies cities that not only provide promising career prospects but also ensure a manageable rent burden for fresh graduates starting out. Spokane, Washington and Des Moines, Iowa, take the second and third spots. Phoenix and Portland stand out as the largest markets by population size. The national average salary for a recent college grad is $59,888 and the typical rent is $2,018, according to the analysis.
Benny King, a Long COVID patient from Spokane, has been diagnosed with Autonomic Dysfunction, a condition that affects the nervous system and gives him only a few more years to live. Despite having 24 negative nasal tests, King's symptoms kept getting worse, and he was diagnosed with Long COVID. He is now unable to drive, work, or move the way he used to and plans to spend time with his family. King is filing for disability and unemployment benefits.
