Wildfire — Waterville Plateau, Washington

2021-07-08 to 2021-07-10 · Waterville Plateau, Washington

Event narrative

The Whitehall Road Fire, near Coulee Meadows, started on July 8th and burned a total 800 acres before it was contained on July 10th. The fire was ignited by lightning with a passing evening thunderstorm. Local news reported that gusty winds created blackout conditions from blowing dust and fire spread in many directions. There are no known injuries or property loss. The cost of the firefighting resources required to contain the fire was calculated at 300,000 dollars.

Wider weather episode

Passing showers on the Waterville Plateau had embedded thunderstorms with a few lightning strikes and gusty winds. With the strong winds, hot conditions and dry fuels fueled the fire.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 971725. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.