PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
June 13, 2023                                                                                        

John Derderian, Firefighter/Paramedic
Public Information Officer
509-588-3211
PIO210@BCFPD2.org

Yakitat Road Fire

Benton City, WA - At approximately 1447HRS Fire District 2 was dispatched to the reports of a Natural Cover Fire in the area of I82 and Yakitat Road. Realizing the area’s history, a red flag warning, as well as recent dry weather; almost immediately more resources were requested from our regional mutual aid resources.  

At approximately 1600HRS a state mobilization was requested, and approved, bringing statewide resources into our area.

Significant early use of air resources including large air tankers, very large air tankers, and helicopters provided structural protection in the immediate area of the fire.

There have been no reported losses of residences, or outbuildings.

There have been no reported injuries to civilians or fire personnel.

Currently, the fire is estimated to be several thousand acres, and no exact size is available at this time. The fire is estimated to be 50% contained.

You will continue to see smoke and fire throughout the night, and days to come.

Another press release is expected to be released at 1200hrs on June 14.

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Benton County Fire Protection District 2
1304 Dale Avenue | P.O. Box 719 - Station 210 | Benton City, WA 99320
Ph: (509) 588-3212 | Fax (509) 588-4343

PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
June 14, 2023                                                                                        

John Derderian, Firefighter/Paramedic
Public Information Officer
509-588-3211
PIO210@BCFPD2.org

Yakitat Road Fire - Release #2

Benton City, WA – Currently the fire is estimated to be 7,000 acres and containment has also been estimated at 50%. The exact size is still unknown and will be until IR mapping is complete.

Overnight, the fire did not have much activity and cooler temperatures and less winds are expected throughout today.

State Mobilization resources consisting of approximately 5 strike teams and supervisory positions have been arriving to relieve Fire District resources.

At 0700HRS this morning the Southeast Washington All Hazard Incident Management Team assumed command of this fire, and further information will be released from the IMT. This fire has been made part of the “Benton Complex” consisting of the Red Mountain fire, Hover Park fire, and the Hansen Road Fire. The Hansen Road fire is the fire formally known as the “Yakitat Road Fire.”

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Benton County Fire Protection District 2
1304 Dale Avenue | P.O. Box 719 - Stat