Zintel Canyon on fire in Kennewick. Gusting winds fan the 2-alarm blaze

Tri-Cities firefighters were battling a two-alarm fire Sunday evening in Zintel Canyon off Highway 395 in Kennewick.

The blaze was being fueled by gusting winds and sending up large clouds of smoke near the 10th Avenue bridge.

First responders were called just before 6 p.m.

Kennewick police had Vancouver Street blocked between 10th and 7th avenues because of the smoke and to give fire trucks access.

Passersby were stopping on the 10th Avenue bridge to watch the action below, as firefighters worked to keep the fire from spread up the canyon sides to homes.

Nearly 20 units were at the scene at 7 p.m. and more were being called in as the wind complicated their efforts.

The canyon is a natural vegetation city park with hiking trails.

This story was originally published May 21, 2023 at 7:15 PM.