Remote Surveillance Trailer in Kennewick, WA

Air quality in the Tri-Cities continues to be impacted by swelling wildfires in Central Washington and Oregon that continue to choke the region.

Kennewick’s air quality dipped into “unhealthy” territory for sensitive groups briefly Wednesday evening before rebounding to “moderate” early Thursday, according to sensor data provided by the Washington Department of Ecology.

Tri-Cities air quality on Thursday remained “moderate” despite increasingly hazy conditions. Most people are OK to go outside, but sensitive individuals should keep outdoor activities “light and short.”

The Wildcat Fire, located about 30 miles from Naches, near Mount Rainier National Park, doubled in size Wednesday to about 5,500 acres.

It closed the Pacific Crest Trail and some forest roads as nearby residents been given notice to be ready to evacuate if needed. It is 0% contained as more than 200 firefighters, 14 engines and two helicopters fight the blazes, according to the Northwest Interagency Coordination Center.

Several other wildfires in the Washington range of the Cascade Mountains and in Eastern Washington have scorched an additional 10,000 acres and continue to be a hazardous.

The Emigrant Fire, in south-central Oregon, has burned more than 30,000 acres since it was started by lightning on Aug. 24. It is 0% contained, with nearly 1,200 personnel working it.

Ecology and the Yakima Regional Clear Air Agency has issued air quality alerts for most of Central Washington due to smoke caused by current and expected regional wildfires.

“When air quality is unhealthy, everyone should reduce exposure,” NWS says.

“Limit time outside, avoid strenuous outdoor activity, and follow tips for cleaner indoor air. Hot temperatures will increase the risk of heat-related illnesses. Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors,” the agency advised.

Much of the Mid-Columbia and beyond — from Wenatchee to Lewiston and down to The Dalles — remains under an extreme heat warning issued by the National Weather Service in Pendleton.

Expect subtle but widespread haze, and temperatures in the high 90s throughout the rest of the week in the Tri-Cities.

The weather service forecasts a reprieve next week — high temperatures in the 70s and 80s with a chance of showers.

This story was originally published September 3, 2025 at 5:56 PM.

The “Best Week of Summer” is here.

This year’s Benton Franklin Fair promises a mix of beloved traditions, fresh attractions and some important changes for visitors to know before they arrive. The fair runs from Aug. 19-23.

Old MacDonald’s Barn Turns 50

One of the fair’s most iconic attractions, Old MacDonald’s Barn, is celebrating its 50th anniversary.

Since 1975, the barn has introduced generations of families to the sights, sounds and smells of farm life. It all began when Pasco High School agriculture teachers Walk Grisham and Wally Caldwell worked with their Future Farmers of America students and community volunteers to design and build the barn from the ground up, a project that earned the Pasco FFA chapter second place nationally in the FFA’s “Building Our American Communities” contest.

This year, the barn is getting a festive look: restored signs and picture frames from its early years, recreated wooden animal cutouts, freshly painted panels and pens and a large “happy Birthday” sign.

Meet Chuckles and Sass Boss

For the first time, the barn will feature Highland cows, a long haired, docile breed originating from Scotland. Kase Warner, a Benton City farmer, who has “been around cows pretty much my whole life,” is bringing two cows to the fair: a dark red one named Chuckles and a tan one named Sass Boss.

“They were both born in April last year, so they’re a little over a year old,” Warner said.

Although they’re not miniature Highlands, the breed grows more slowly than most cattle and even full-size adults are known for their gentle temperament.

Highland cows, Warner explained, are versatile animals valued for meat and milk and stand out for their intelligence.

“They’re a lot more friendly than people expect, and a lot smarter than most other breeds,” he said.

Their distinctive long hair also sets them apart.

“Kind of like a yakish look,” Warner added with a laugh.

This is Warner’s first year bringing Highland cows to Old MacDonald’s Barn, although his family has long participated in the fair by bringing rabbits, goats and other livestock.

“We just like to participate ... it’s kind of like a petting zoo at the barn,” he said.

Fair visitors will be able to pet Chuckles and Sass Boss. Warner said the experience is not only fun for guests but also good for the animals.

“Especially at a young age, it helps get the animals used to people,” he said. “By the time people are finished associating with them, they’re usually pretty friendly if they weren’t before.”

Warner hopes kids and families walk away with a new perspective.

“Not all cows are big and scary,” he said. “A lot of people have never seen a cow up close. This gives them a chance to approach a big animal in a controlled environment, and it can be a really positive experience.”

New rides, attractions and exhibits

Around the fairgrounds, there will be plenty more to explore. Davis Shows Northwest is introducing two new rides, a double-decker carousel and a flying elephants ride.

The Kids’ Zone is going prehistoric with fossil digs, hands-on dinosaur activities and a nine-hole dino-themed mini golf course.

In the HomeTown Marketplace, visitors can watch live art demos from local artists Heidi Elkington, Warren Hughs and Roger Pope, while enjoying a rotation of local food trucks. The Agriculture Building will once again be filled with thousands of homegrown exhibits and educational displays, including the Washington Wine Grape exhibit, Grange Book displays and presentations from WSU Master Gardeners.

Important fairgrounds updates

Visitors will notice several changes when they arrive this year, due to recent upgrades made by the county.

To avoid parking challenges entirely, officials strongly recommend using Ben Franklin Transit, which is offering free bus rides to the fair. Buses will have a dedicated entrance, allowing passengers to bypass traffic and parking delays.

“These changes were implemented by our landlord as part of ongoing facility updates,” said Benton Franklin Fair Executive Director Lori Lancaster. “While we understand this may require some adjustment, we’re working hard to ensure every visitor has a positive experience. We ask for our community’s patience as we navigate these changes together and look forward to welcoming everyone to another unforgettable Fair.”

Traditions that keep the crowds coming back

While there’s plenty of “new” to see, many favorite traditions are back, from All-Alaskan Racing Pigs and Pedal Pullers to the Mutton Bustin’ rodeo for ages 5-7, Roberto the Magnificent’s comedy stunts and the Boom! LED Percussion crew. Camel rides, axe throwing and carnival games round out the entertainment.

With last year’s attendance topping 123,000 and the Market Stock Auction generating over $1.45 million for local youth programs, the Benton Franklin Fair remains one of the Tri-Cities’ biggest community events, now with a few updates to keep things fresh.