Firefighters battling the Bench Fire southwest of Warm Springs have made significant strides, reaching 84 percent containment as of Tuesday, August 4 — progress that allowed emergency managers to lower all evacuation levels on the Warm Springs Reservation to Level 1 ("Be Ready") earlier this week.

The fire, which ignited July 23 by lightning, has burned 67,078 acres of grass, shrub, and ponderosa pine in the Warm Springs area. At its peak, the blaze prompted Level 3 "Go Now" evacuation orders for the Warm Springs Agency and several surrounding areas including Upper Seekseequa, Dry Hollow, Lower Seekseequa, Jackson Trail, and Tenino Road.

Evacuation Levels Eased

The most significant development came Monday when all reservation evacuation levels were reduced. A Level 1 "Be Ready" designation means residents should gather important documents, medications, and supplies in case conditions worsen, but are not required to leave at this time.

Tribal emergency officials and fire managers continue to advise residents to stay prepared, as hot, dry conditions forecast for Wednesday could challenge firefighters and potentially affect fire behavior even in areas where containment lines are established. Evacuation zone maps have been updated to reflect the improved conditions.

Recovery Distribution Center Open

For families affected by the Bench Fire, the Warm Springs Wildfire Recovery Distribution Center remains open today from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Old School Cafeteria. The center is providing food, water, and household supplies to displaced and impacted residents.

Tribal officials encourage those needing assistance to arrive early. Donations are also being accepted at designated drop-off locations across the community.

809 Personnel on the Bench Fire

The Bench Fire remains a major incident with 809 firefighters and support personnel assigned as of Tuesday. Crews are focused on containment line work and mop-up on the western perimeter, while teams walk the interior of the fire to mitigate fire-weakened trees and other hazards for worker safety.

Tribal Leadership Updates

Separately, the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs released their inaugural Tomahawk Newsletter this week, introducing new executive leadership. The newsletter highlights Secretary-Treasurer and CEO Ed Henderson, Chief Operating Officer Caroline Cruz, and Director of Governmental Affairs Andrew Hofstetter. Major tribal initiatives currently under consideration include a feasibility study for a new Highway 26 rest area, a planned Youth and Elder Center, and development of a warming and cooling shelter. The newsletter also recognizes 68 tribal employees for milestone years of service ranging from five to more than 50 years.

For the latest Bench Fire information, visit centraloregonfire.org or call the public fire information line at 541-707-8719 (8 a.m. to 8 p.m.).