The Spokane region was recently gripped by an intense display of meteorological power, as widespread thunderstorms unleashed hundreds of lightning strikes across the area. This formidable weather event on Wednesday evening brought with it not only isolated downpours and significant power outages but also ignited several brush and even a structure fire, prompting immediate responses from local emergency services.
While the immediate aftermath saw crews swiftly containing the blazes, the atmospheric volatility extended beyond the Spokane-Coeur d’Alene metropolitan area. Meteorologists confirmed that Thursday night witnessed additional thunderstorm activity in portions of the Idaho Panhandle, southeastern Washington, and regions of northeastern Washington bordering Canada, albeit with the core metro remaining relatively calm during that period.
The threat of further severe weather looms, with forecasts indicating the possibility of more thunderstorms on both Friday and Saturday. These anticipated storms are expected to primarily affect counties situated north of Spokane and Kootenai counties. However, authorities caution that the Spokane and Coeur d’Alene areas should remain vigilant, as they too could experience renewed weather activity.
Detailed analysis revealed the sheer scale of Wednesday’s event, with nearly 260 lightning strikes recorded across Spokane, Stevens, Pend Oreille, and Kootenai counties. Spokane County alone bore the brunt of 99 strikes, while Stevens County experienced an even higher count of 105. Fortunately, many of the small wildfires sparked by these strikes were rapidly brought under control by dedicated fire officials.
Local emergency response was exemplary, with crews responding to approximately eight brush fires and a crucial structure fire on Wednesday night. David LaChapelle, assistant fire marshal for Spokane County Fire District 4, highlighted that the structure fire involved a barn filled with hay, but firefighters acted swiftly to extinguish it, preventing extensive damage. All the reported brush fires were contained to less than one acre, a success partly attributed to the public’s quick reporting of incidents.
A particular concern for fire officials has been the phenomenon of “sleeper” fires. These are delayed ignitions where lightning strikes the ground and smolders for a day or two before finally erupting into a full-fledged blaze. Such a delayed ignition was suspected as the cause of another brush fire reported Thursday morning, underscoring the insidious nature of these lingering threats.
In response to this unique challenge and the continued risk of new lightning strikes, extra fire crews were strategically deployed on Thursday. Their primary directive is to maintain heightened vigilance for any emerging “sleeper” fires or new ignitions that might manifest. Authorities are “paying close attention in case any strikes that didn’t show themselves last night” suddenly ignite, emphasizing a proactive approach to public safety and wildfire prevention.
The ongoing weather alerts and the potential for additional severe weather underscore the importance of community preparedness and continued awareness. Residents are urged to monitor local weather forecasts and report any suspicious smoke or fire activity promptly, contributing to the collective effort to mitigate the risks posed by nature’s powerful forces.
