Benton-Franklin Health District

An infographic with details on how people can protect themselves against norovirus.

Officials warn of norovirus in Tri-Cities

Rachel Sun

The Benton-Franklin Health District is reporting a sharp rise in norovirus.

Fire crews spray water on rubble at the Lineage Logistics fire in Finley, Washington. The fire started on April 21. (Credit: Benton County Fire District #1)

Health district secures grant funds, distributes response survey after Lineage warehouse fire

(Runtime 1:08) A few days ago, Finley resident Scott Matthews was at the local general store. He ran into someone who asked him to smell their…

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency scientists Rochelle Labiosa (right) and Lil Herger examine the Columbia River for toxic algae as Jason Pappani leans over to reach into the water

Local News

Big trouble on the Columbia: EPA studies river’s toxic algae spread

Anna King

It’s still warm in the afternoon on the edge of the Columbia River as water laps against the shore.A team of Environmental Protection Agency scientists…

Old Schoolhouse Brewery owner Jacob Young serves food to his customers. He says when there's little smoke and fires are far away, he sees more patrons.CREDIT: COURTNEY FLATT

Local News

Breweries, Wineries In Tri-Cities And Yakima May Need To Close Under Clarified Reopening Guidance

Wineries and breweries in Yakima, Benton and Franklin counties must keep their doors closed for now, unless they serve food out of their own kitchens. That’s the updated guidance for the three counties, which are seeing some of the highest numbers of coronavirus cases in Washington.

Farmworkers in Yakima’s fruit-packing industry walked off production lines in May and went on strike, demanding more protections against the coronavirus pandemic. Above, Emmanuel Anguiano-Mendoza (left) and Agustin López hold posters featuring David Cruz, a worker who died on May 30. CREDIT: Enrique Pérez de la Rosa/NWPB

Local News

Yakima, Tri-Cities Eye Modified Phase 1, But 'We Have To Remain Vigilant' With Mask Use, Officials Say

County officials in eastern Washington rushed applications to the state Thursday evening to reopen their economies. It came the same day Gov. Jay Inslee announced the state would approve their plans to reopen and put others on pause for two weeks.