SECOND STREET

Fire contained and roads reopened as command returns to local crews

The fire ignited near Benton City and Kiona, spreading rapidly across Interstate 82 and State Route 224 toward West Richland before crews halted its forward progress. Perimeter lines are holding while local firefighters mop up hotspots and monitor isolated interior burning near the Tri-City Raceway. The fire is contained and poses no current threat to neighboring communities.

Evacuations and Closures

• September 26: Evacuation notices for areas along Kennedy Road, State Route 224, and Keene Road were lowered to Level 1 ('Ready').
• September 26: All emergency road closures along Kennedy Road and Dallas Road were lifted and reopened to normal traffic.
• September 26: An American Red Cross temporary evacuation shelter operated at Central Church in Richland during initial evacuations.

Impact

The fire damaged structures, vehicles, and agricultural crops between Benton City and West Richland. No injuries to civilians or emergency responders have been reported.

Conditions and Outlook

Dry, overcast weather will persist over the next few days, with light winds shifting southwesterly and turning gusty midweek before easing. Fire activity remains minimal as local crews maintain containment lines and allow interior fuels to burn out safely. No red flag warnings are in effect.

Cause and Context

The fire is listed as human-caused and remains under investigation as of September 27. State mobilization has officially concluded, with incident command transitioned back to Benton County Fire District 4 and local partner agencies.

Official updates current through September 27, 2026.