Wildfire — Lower Kuskokwim Valley, Alaska

2022-06-09 · Lower Kuskokwim Valley, Alaska

Event narrative

Red Flag Warning was in effect for lightning beginning 09/22Z (2pm AKDT).

Based on 15-min GLD data, lightning began at 09/20:00Z (noon AKDT). At 09/20:45Z (12:45pm AKDT), 1 cell had 27 strikes in 15 min (equivalent to LAL 5). Lightning activity continued to intensify, peaking around 09/22:30Z (2:30pm AKDT) at around 129 strikes in 15 min. The last strikes in the zone were observed at 10/02:00Z (6pm AKDT).

Wider weather episode

An upper level ridge built over Southwest Alaska June 8th and remained over the area through the 10th. At the surface, a relatively tight pressure gradient to some gusty winds in combination with the hot and dry conditions. A few upper level shortwaves moving through the flow aloft helped to aid in lift across the area. Also, daytime heating helped to destabilize the atmosphere leading to increased instability along with some moisture leading to thunderstorms during the afternoon and evening hours.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1045255. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.