Fire crews from Kennewick Fire Department (KFD) responded to multiple calls on Sunday, May 21 at 5:59 p.m. that reported "multiple trees on fire and heavy black smoke". Callers also reported hot embers falling and smoldering on nearby neighbors' roofs.
Within 5 minutes of the 911 call, the first KFD fire crew arrived at the scene and saw a "natural vegetation" fire about a half-acre in size. The fire rapidly increased in size due to the 15-25 mph winds, according to Kennewick Fire Chief Chad Michael.
KFD said due to the nature of the fire, additional resources were requested. Multiple agencies responded from Benton, Franklin and Walla Walla County. Kennewick Parks, Police and Public Works department also responded.
According to Fire Chief Chad Michael, the Incident Commander prioritized protecting structures that were threatened by the fire, just under two dozen homes.