Good morning, Richland.

Officials reported updated details on the Railroad, Hagen, Paradise and Horse Ridge fires on Jul.

23 (firefighters are working to contain the blazes) as they monitor the situations.

A 77-year-old photographer died after collapsing from natural causes at about 8 a.m. Thursday in the Columbia River Neil F.

Lampson Pit Area while photographing boats at the Tri-City Water Follies; rescue teams + EMS responded.

Wildfire spreads along East Locust Grove Road, forcing Level 3 evacuations for West 50th and South areas with an evacuation center set at South Hills Church parking lot in Kennewick by 10 p.m. Firefighters responded after the blaze started before 9:30 p.m.

Today, near 100 degree heat and smoky skies lower air quality in local areas; dangerous fire weather continues with gusty winds + dry vegetation, and lightning risks remain a concern through Saturday even as temperatures begin to cool.

State fire officials report the Locust Grove fire is now estimated at 750 acres and evacuation levels have been downgraded—from Level 3 to Level 2 and Level 2 to Level 1—to allow cautious returns while an evacuation shelter is open at South Hills Church parking lot (3700 W 27th Ave) in Kennewick.

Benton County health officials urged residents to use repellent, wear long sleeves, and remove standing water after West Nile virus was detected in several local mosquito traps on July 1 — a blood donation also tested positive although no symptoms have been reported so far.

For the upcoming Water Follies weekend race on the Columbia River, drivers in Kennewick are checking safety gear—helmets with HANS devices, air masks, and radios—to handle high speeds and strong winds.

Veteran racer Michael Jarvis, with over 30 years on the water, said proper gear is key to safety.

Trivia Night at Barnard Griffin Winery

6-8 p.m. — Barnard Griffin Winery — Free entry — Test your knowledge over wine and food at an exciting trivia night.