US: Huge Wildfire Triggers Aerial Assault As Flames Spread Across Washington Lands.

Washington, United States - July 31, 2026 Video shows the intense aerial response against the Modrite Fire, with a large air tanker releasing a long stream of pink and red fire retardant ahead of the active fire line. Aerial footage captures the aircraft making repeated firefighting operations over the wildfire area as smoke rises above the surrounding landscape. 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, prompting Level 3 “Go Now” evacuations, including impacts near Inchelium. Air tankers, scoopers, and helicopters were heavily used for retardant and water drops.