Wind blows hot embers into trees sparking fire

By on Saturday, April 9th, 2022 in Columbia Basin News Featured Stories

KENNEWICK — The Kennewick Police Department responded Saturday at 3:17 p.m. to a possible residential fire in the area of North Volland Street and West Metaline Avenue. When officers arrived, heavy smoke could be seen in the area as multiple arbor vitae trees were on fire, threatening multiple structures.

Officers also found multiple vehicles on fire at a residence on the 4500 block of West Metaline Avenue. The vehicles were parked along the rows of trees. Residents in structures endangered by the flames were evacuated.

It was discovered the fire was caused by a smoldering fire pit near the trees. A gust of wind blew hot embers into the trees, creating a fire.

The Kennewick Police Department and the Kennewick Fire Department remind everyone to be careful where you burn and be aware of weather conditions in order to avoid incidents of this nature.

Image via Kennewick Police Department