A fast-moving wildfire burning in the Badger Canyon area east of Kennewick, Washington has scorched approximately 1,700 acres and prompted evacuations for hundreds of residents in southern Benton County. As of the latest reports, the Country Meadow Fire stands at 20% containment, a significant improvement from its explosive start late last week.

Fire Start and State Mobilization

The Country Meadow Fire ignited on May 23, 2026, and grew rapidly in dry grass and brush near Country Meadows and Country Heights Drive in Benton County. The pace of growth was severe enough that Washington State Patrol Chief John Batiste authorized a State Fire Mobilization at 5:15 p.m. on May 23 — deploying additional firefighting resources from across the state to assist local fire districts.

At its peak, the fire threatened more than 150 homes and forced Level 3 (Leave Now) evacuation orders for nearby neighborhoods. Benton County Fire District 1 has since downgraded those orders to Level 2 (Be Ready to Leave) as crews gained better control of the fire's perimeter.

Structures Lost

At least one shop building was lost to the fire, according to Benton County Fire District 1 officials. No injuries have been publicly reported. Air support played a key role in slowing the fire's spread, with tankers and helicopters conducting retardant and water drops during the most critical hours.

Current Status

As of the June 1 NIFC situation report, the Country Meadow Fire stands at 1,700 acres with 20% containment. The fire appears on the national large fire list managed by Benton County Fire Districts under state jurisdiction. Firefighters continue to strengthen containment lines and mop up interior hot spots.

What Residents Should Know

Residents in the affected area are urged to remain prepared to leave quickly even as evacuation levels have been reduced. Level 2 (Be Ready) means a wildfire is near and conditions may change rapidly.

  • Keep vehicles fueled and facing out for quick departure
  • Gather important documents, medications, and valuables
  • Know your evacuation route and alternate routes
  • Check Benton County Emergency Management for current evacuation maps and zone status
  • Monitor local alerts through the Washington Emergency Alert system

The fire comes early in what forecasters predict will be an above-normal fire season for eastern Washington. The Columbia Basin and surrounding areas have seen below-average precipitation and above-average temperatures this spring, priming fuels for rapid fire spread.