Major Brush Fire Threatening Homes in Benton County [UPDATED]

Benton County Firefighters continue to fight the major brush fire that started South of Clodfelter Rd. and I-82 in Benton County.

Updated 7:30p -  At this time the fire is not fully contained, and crews continue to battle the blaze however residents in the Clodfelter, Christensen and Willow PR area can return to their homes.  Residents of the Hansen Park Area may also return to their homes.  

 Fire crews continue to respond to the natural cover fire that has burned between 800-1000 acres in South Kennewick. 38 engines and 112 firefighters from the surrounding areas have responded to the fire. Preliminary damage assessments are underway; fire crews have protected over 50 homes.

Updated 4:30p - From a press release given to us by Benton County Emergency Services, area fire crews have responded to a natural cover fire in the South Kennewick Area, at Clodfelter and Christensen Road. The fire has burned approximately 9 square miles and continues to burn. Residents on Clodfelter and Christensen road and the area typically known as 5 Corners have been asked to leave the area as a precaution. If you cannot evacuate take shelter indoors and turn off all sources of outside air to prevent unnecessary smoke exposure. The American Red Cross will be opening a shelter at Highland Middle School, located at 425 Tweedt, Kennewick WA 99337. The Shelter is expected to be open at 5:30 PM for any residents who have evacuated.

The public is asked to avoid the following areas:
• Clodfelter Road/ Christensen Road
• West Clearwater, west of Columbia Center Blvd
• 10th Ave west of Columbia Center Blvd

The cause of the fire is unknown at this time.

We will keep you updated on any new information as soon as we get it. If you have any photos from the fire email them to 97rockpics@gmail.com.