Bench Fire Reaches 40,296 Acres After Merging with Beachcomb Fire

WARM SPRINGS, Ore. — Firefighters with CTWS Fire Management and regional suppression teams continue to battle the rapidly expanding Bench Fire, which has grown to 40,296 acres after merging with the nearby Beachcomb Fire 4 miles southwest of Warm Springs. The blaze remains at 0% containment, with officials warning of extreme fire behavior, wind-driven runs, and long-range spotting.

Increased wind activity late Sunday fueled dramatic fire expansion, resulting in the confirmed destruction of six primary residences and five agricultural or non-residential outbuildings. Damage assessment teams remain on scene as the fire creates three active fronts directly threatening the Warm Springs community.

Firefighting crews worked through the night to build and hold critical containment features:

• Palmer Lane & M-100 Road: Crews successfully completed dozer and hand lines along the M-100 road and completed strategic firing operations and dozer lines along Palmer Lane to protect nearby structures.

• Campbell and Willow Creeks: Direct suppression efforts are focusing heavily on Campbell and Willow Creeks.

• Community Point Protection: Firefighters are maintaining point protection around Warm Springs and surrounding at-risk neighborhoods while securing locations where flames crossed local roads and the Deschutes River.

• Road Prep: Fire personnel are preparing key holding features along the M-100, 26, and 25 roads as part of the primary containment strategy.

A total of 7 crews, 14 engines, 6 dozers, 3 water tenders, and 1 helicopter are deployed to the incident, with additional personnel and equipment on order.

Level 3 evacuation orders remain in effect from Seekseequa to Agency. Immediate “GO” notices also cover the Warm Springs Agency District (including all of Greeley Heights, Tenino Apartments, Trailer Courts, West Hill, Elmer Quinn Park, the Campus Area, and any residents along Shitike Creek), as well as Pelton Park, Pelton Dam, Dry Hollow, and Lake Simtustus.

• Evacuee Assistance: Impacted residents in need of assistance can report to the Old School Cafeteria or contact Emergency Management at 541-419-8094.

• Road Closures: Travelers are urged to monitor roadway status and closures—including US Highway 26—via ODOT’s tripcheck.com.

Due to the widespread Level 3 evacuation zone and safety risks:

• CTWS Tribal Government Offices: All Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs offices are closed today.

• Warm Springs Indian Health Service Clinic: While initially planning to offer basic care today, the clinic is fully closed because the facility is located within the Level 3 Evacuation Zone.

• 509-J School Summer Programs & Meals: All summer school programs and meal sites in Madras are closed today. School leadership will share an update later today regarding school status for the remainder of the week.

With fire activity heavily impacting daily life, Kah-Nee-Ta Resort wants local community members to know their doors are open. The resort is completely safe, situated well outside of all active evacuation zones, and operating normally. To help families get a break from the heat and smoke, Kah-Nee-Ta is offering:

• Free Pool Admittance: Available for all Warm Springs and Madras residents Monday through Thursday this week from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

• Discounted River Passes: River adventure passes are half-price at $10.

Fire Weather Forecast

Weather conditions today present ongoing challenges for suppression efforts:

Stage 2 Fire Restrictions remain strictly enforced across Jefferson County and Warm Springs. Prohibited activities include campfires outside designated areas, fireworks, debris burning, exploding targets, and chainsaw use between 1:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.

• InciWeb Incident Page: Bench Fire Details

• Official Facebook Page: CTWS Fire Management

• Incident Email: 2026.bench@firenet.gov

• Public & Media Phone Line: 541-707-8719