Multiple evacuation orders and disruptions hit communities in and around Benton County, Washington over the weekend of June 14–15, 2026, as a cluster of rapidly growing wildfires encircled the Tri-Cities region. Residents near Benton City were ordered to evacuate, a fire knocked out power to the city of Prosser, and highway closures complicated emergency access across the area.

Benton City Area Evacuations

One fire burning east of Benton City prompted evacuation orders for some residents as flames advanced near the Old Inland Empire Highway, north of Interstate 82. Officials with Benton County emergency management coordinated evacuations as the fire moved through dry grass and brush in the area. The blaze also knocked out electrical infrastructure, causing power outages in Prosser.

Residents in evacuation zones were directed to follow public safety personnel guidance and monitor official channels for updates. Recovery of power in Prosser was ongoing as crews worked to assess and repair damaged lines once fire activity in the area allowed safe access.

Highway 730 Closure — Walla Walla County

The Twin Sisters Fire south of Wallula Junction forced the closure of U.S. Highway 730, which runs along the Columbia River. The highway was shut in both directions at the height of fire activity on Sunday before reopening Sunday night after fire crews established enough progress to deem the corridor safe. The incident management team asked drivers to avoid the area and not to interfere with firefighting operations along the route.

Highway 97 Closure — Yakima County

U.S. Highway 97, a major north-south corridor through the Yakima Valley, was closed south of Toppenish due to the Tule Fire burning on and near the roadway. Fire crews worked throughout Sunday to push containment lines and reopen the route. Motorists were advised to seek alternate routing and check WSDOT's online travel information for current closure status.

Staging Area Established in Burbank

Columbia School District in Burbank, located in Franklin County, was designated as a staging area and temporary fire crew base for resources assigned to the Twin Sisters Fire. The use of school facilities as a logistical hub is common practice during large fire responses in the region, allowing crews to mobilize quickly close to the incident.

What Residents Should Know

  • Monitor Benton, Franklin, and Walla Walla county emergency management offices for current evacuation orders and warnings.
  • Sign up for local emergency alert systems (e.g., Alert Sense or your county's notification platform).
  • Avoid driving into closed areas — highway closures are enforced and can change rapidly.
  • If you are under evacuation order, leave immediately and do not return until officials give the all-clear.
  • Keep a go-bag ready with medications, documents, and essential supplies in case you need to evacuate quickly.

With additional fires expected as a Red Flag Warning covers the region through Tuesday evening, emergency managers are urging all residents in fire-prone areas of southeastern Washington to remain vigilant and have a personal evacuation plan in place.