California Prepares For Fire Risk As Storms Bring Lightning Threat

California has prepositioned firefighting resources across the state in anticipation of thunderstorms bringing heavy rain, dry lightning and gusty winds that could spark new wildfires. CAL FIRE has boosted staffing statewide. The agency has added extra engines, strike teams, and hand crews in both its northern and southern regions and in contract counties including Ventura, Santa Barbara, Kern, Los Angeles and Marin.

The move follows August’s “lightning siege,” which produced more than 110,000 lightning strikes, 530 fires and nearly 29,000 acres burned. The National Weather Service said warm, dry conditions combined with tropical moisture could trigger thunderstorms through next week. While some rain may be beneficial, the potential for dry lightning remains high. “Lightning can strike with little or no warning, sparking dangerous wildfires,” CAL FIRE Director Joe Tyler said, urging residents to stay alert, follow evacuation orders and take lightning safety seriously. CAL FIRE officials also reminded Californians to have emergency “go bags” ready and sign up for local alerts to receive real-time information during evacuations.