Smoke from a fast-moving wildfire in southern Washington's Alderdale area has drifted into the Tri-Cities, alarming residents in Kennewick, Pasco, and Richland. The fire, located along the north bank of the Columbia River, is roughly 30 miles west of the Tri-Cities metro area.
The Tri-Cities, home to over 300,000 residents, lies directly downwind of Klickitat County under prevailing southwesterly summer winds.
Klickitat County Emergency Management has issued Level 3 (GO NOW) and Level 2 (GET SET) evacuation alerts for the affected area.
A Level 3 evacuation means danger is current or imminent, and residents must leave without delay. A Level 2 order means significant danger exists and residents should prepare to depart at a moment's notice.
The smoke has already affected air quality and impaired visibility, with authorities advising sensitive individuals to limit prolonged outdoor activity until air quality improves.
Many residents in the Kennewick, Pasco, and Richland areas have reported seeing smoke and a burning smell, with some confused about the origin of the smoke.
