Level 3 GO NOW Evacuations Ordered as Fast-Moving Second Street Fire Burns Past 1,100 Acres Near Benton City, Washington
Benton City, Washington – A fast-moving wildfire near Benton City has forced residents from their homes as the Second Street Fire continues to grow across Benton County. Fire crews are battling the blaze through dry grass and brush while strong winds make conditions even more dangerous for firefighters and nearby neighborhoods.
Fire Sparked Friday Afternoon and Spread Quickly
The Second Street Fire started in grass, brush, and urban forested areas near Benton City at around 2:40 p.m. Friday and kept spreading, putting homes and infrastructure at risk. Firefighters who responded to a reported brush fire near northeast Second Street, south of Benton City, found a quickly growing grass fire that had already burned a quarter-acre and was moving toward homes.
Within just a few hours, the fire had grown dramatically. By Friday evening, the estimated size had been updated to 1,149 acres. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Level 3 GO NOW Evacuations in Place
Level 3 GO NOW evacuations are in effect for residents in the danger zone. People living in the subdivision reached by Pear Drive and North Valley Drive Way, along with residents of the Kiona Village Mobile Home Park, have been urged to leave immediately. The evacuation zone covers a large stretch between Benton City and West Richland, just north of Kennedy Road and I-82 and south of Highway 224 and Keene Road.
Red Cross temporary evacuation centers have been opened at Ki-Be High School in Benton City and at Central Church, 1124 Stevens Drive in Richland.
State Fire Mobilization Authorized
With the fire spreading fast, Washington has called in extra help. Washington State Patrol Chief John Batiste authorized state firefighting resources at 4:30 p.m. on September 25 at the request of Benton County Fire District 4 Deputy Fire Chief Dan Drayton. The State Emergency Operations Center at Camp Murray has also moved to full activation to coordinate state support for the fire.
Road Closures and Downed Power Lines
The fire has caused major disruptions to travel in the area. Interstate 82 was closed in both directions between Benton City and the Tri-Cities, with eastbound traffic being diverted at Exit 96 near Benton City. Highway 224 and Keene Road have since reopened.
There have also been several reports of power lines and utility poles falling or burning between Benton City and West Richland. Residents are urged to stay away from any downed lines and follow instructions from emergency officials.
Residents Urged to Stay Alert
With strong winds still fanning the flames, conditions could change quickly. Anyone living near Benton City, Kiona, or West Richland should keep a go-bag ready, monitor local emergency alerts, and leave right away if ordered to do so.
For the latest Washington wildfire updates and breaking news, stay with bchssreport.com.