See Pics of Big Highway 397 Fire near Finley from Monday
Crews from Benton County Fire District 1, assisted by BCFD 2, 4, Franklin County 3, West Richland and even Walla Walla crews beat back a natural cover fire off of Highway 397 by Nine Canyon Road late Monday.
The fire was first reported around 4:58PM, we saw the plume of smoke and heard sirens from everywhere as we were at daughter's softball practice at Southridge Sports complex.
The crews report about 500 acres were burned, it was completely extinguished and considered 'out' around 2AM Tuesday. BCFD 1 says they're not sure yet what started the fire, but remind everyone to be extra careful. Fire danger, as usually is, very high this time of year. No damage or injuries reported from fire.