Huge Wildfire Triggers Aerial Assault As Flames Spread Across Washington Lands

Video shows a large air tanker releasing a long stream of pink and red fire retardant ahead of the active fire line during the Modrite Fire.

Aerial footage captures the aircraft making a retardant drop over the wildfire area as crews continue efforts against the advancing flames.

The lightning-caused Modrite Fire started on July 17, 2026, approximately 17 miles southwest of Inchelium, Washington, on the Colville Reservation in Ferry County.

As of the July 31 updates, the fire had grown to roughly 22,000 to 22,700 acres and was around 27% contained. Several hundred personnel were assigned to the incident.

The fire showed rapid growth and extreme behavior in dry fuels, leading to Level 3 “Go Now” evacuations, including impacts near Inchelium. Air tankers, scoopers, and helicopters were heavily used for retardant and water drops.