Oregon thunderstorms produce 8,357 lightning strikes, sparking numerous new wildfires across the state.
Oregon experienced 8,357 lightning strikes during thunderstorms on July 22, igniting a collection of new wildfires while providing varying amounts of rainfall to existing blazes. The strikes were most concentrated in the Coast Range, Central Cascades, and southeast Oregon, with significant activity in the Willamette Valley. While the rain helped quell some fires, it caused others to expand. The Awaka Butte Fire grew to 26,144 acres, prompting expanded evacuation orders near Sisters. Additionally, the Hagen Fire prompted Governor Tina Kotek to invoke the Emergency Conflagration Act. Firefighters are currently managing 24 major wildfires with over 9,000 personnel deployed, primarily in central and eastern Oregon. Meteorologists warn that conditions east of the Cascades remain favorable for rapid fire growth due to low humidity and gusty winds. However, cooler air moving into the west side of the state will bring temperatures into the upper 70s. Fire managers are using "Total Lightning" data to pre-position resources to attack new starts before they develop into large blazes.