California and Alaska Wildfires

Losses, 2024 dollars

$5.5 billion

Losses at the time

$4.5 billion

Deaths

3

The losses and deaths are NCEI’s, counting everything the disaster did. The episodes below are only what the Weather Service filed in its Storm Events record, which counts damage differently and often not at all, so the two never add up and are shown apart.

• Wildfire in Washington, June 3 to 8, 20191 eventThe Columbia Basin of eastern Washington is a dry basin under the rain shadow of the Cascade Mountains. Consequently this area is an open range land of grass and sage which quickly dries out and becomes vulnerable to wildfire from late spring through early autumn.
• Wildfire in California, June 8 to 17, 20192 injured · 1 eventA upper level low passed through the region, which brought elevated fire weather concerns to northern California. Areas impacted within Sacramento's forecast area include the Sacramento and San Joaquin Valleys for areas generally below 1000 feet.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, June 11 to 12, 20191 eventA fire charred about 500 acres of dry brush on the south side of the Garden Isle of Kauai near Poipu. The blaze prompted some evacuations of local residents and road closures as a precaution. However, the fire did not result in any serious property damage or injuries.
• Wildfire in Colorado, June 18 to 30, 20191 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire about 10 miles southeast of Dove Creek.
• Debris Flow in West Virginia, June 19, 2019$2,000 · 1 eventA low pressure system and associated cold front moved into the Ohio Valley on the evening of the 19th, which was already an environment primed for locally heavy rainfall given the abundant amount of low level moisture.
• Wildfire in California, June 25 to 27, 20191 eventA broad trough passing over the Pacific Northwest brought breezy winds to the San Joaquin Valley. These conditions, combined with dry fuels led to a increased fire danger for the region.
• Wildfire in Florida, June 28, 2019$75,000 · 1 eventA small brush/wildfire developed in the Tamiami Pinelands Park area in the afternoon. The fire quickly spread causing damage to two vehicles. Smoke produced very low to no visibility in the area at the time.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 1 to 15, 20191 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire about 10 miles southeast of Dove Creek.
• Wildfire in Idaho, July 2 to 3, 20191 eventA lightning strike caused a fire in Jefferson County near Table Butte on BLM property. The grass and brush fire burned over 800 acres. The fire began around 2 pm MDT on the 2nd and was controlled by July 3rd. No structures were threatened and no evacuations occurred.
• Wildfire and Damaging Winds in Florida, July 4, 2019$2,000 · 50 kt wind · 21 eventsExtremely moist airmass remained in place that provided fuel for numerous afternoon and early evening thunderstorms, especially for locations west of I-95 and the St.
• Wildfire in Texas, July 4 to 5, 20191 eventThe Binford Ranch or Independence Day Wildfire began around 1258CST about five miles north northwest of Wildorado Texas in Oldham County near Binford Ranch Road and County Road 45. The wildfire was determined to have been caused by lightning.
• Wildfire in Idaho, July 6 to 8, 20191 eventLightning caused an 8,272 acre fire 7 miles north of Raft River on BLM property. It was a grass and brush fire that began on July 6th at around 3 pm MDT. It was controlled on July 8th with no structures threatened and no evacuations required.
• Wildfire in Idaho, July 6 to 9, 20191 eventA nearly 9,500 grass and brush wildfire was started by lightning on July 6th at 5:30 MDT. No structures were threatened and no evacuations were required.
• Wildfire in Idaho, July 10 to 31, 20191 eventThe Shady wildfire began with a lightning strike on July 10th and burned over 3,600 acres by the end of July in northwestern Custer County. The fire burned subalpine fir and lodgepole pine.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, July 11 to 15, 20191 eventA pair of brush fires combined to create a major hazardous episode over a portion of the Valley Isle of Maui. The blaze blackened around 9200 acres of old, dry sugarcane plantation fields and unmanaged grasslands in the isle's Central Valley.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 11 to 13, 20191 eventA wildfire was ignited, most likely by a lightning strike, 5.5 miles south-southwest of Rangely.
• Wildfire in Idaho, July 12 to 16, 20191 eventLightning caused the Ridgeline fire 7 miles northeast of Albion. It was 1,000 acres of grass, brush and juniper. Structures were threatened but not damaged.
• Wildfire in Idaho, July 12 to 14, 20191 eventThe twenty mile fire began on July 12th at around 8:30 pm MDT just over 20 miles west of Idaho Falls. It was caused by lightning and burned around 200 acres of grash and brush. No structures were threatened with no closures or evacuations. It was controlled by July 14th.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 13 to 31, 20191 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire about 10 miles northeast of Durango.
• Wildfire and Strong Wind in Nevada, July 13 to 16, 20191 death · 2 injured · 2 eventsA longwave trough moved across the northwestern US the 13th through the 17th. This trough brought breezy conditions each afternoon to western Nevada and eastern California.
• Debris Flow in Colorado, July 14, 20191 eventStrong instability and adequate subtropical moisture from the North American Monsoon led to thunderstorms which developed across western Colorado. These storms produced heavy rain and some debris flow in San Miguel County.
• Wildfire in Utah, July 16 to 31, 20191 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire about 22 miles west of Blanding in the Dark Canyon Wilderness area of the Manti-La Sal National Forest.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 18 to 23, 20191 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 39 miles northwest of Rifle.
• Wildfire in Washington, July 18 to 22, 20191 eventDuring the afternoon of July 18th the Cold Creek Wildfire began just west of the Hanford Site and burned 45000 acres primarily on the Arid Lands Ecology Reserve and Rattlesnake Mountain. This fire was determined to be human caused.
• Wildfire in Idaho, July 19 to 30, 20191 eventThe Vader Fire was located 13 miles northwest of Stanley south of Highway 21. Thatcher Creek Campground and Vader Creek Day-Use Area were closed. Highway 21 was also closed for a short time. It burned 443 acres. It burned lodgepole pine and the cause was not known.
• Debris Flow and Flooding in Puerto Rico, July 20 to 22, 20195 eventsAbundant low-level moisture combined with strong daytime heating and sea breeze convergence to result in heavy showers and thunderstorms across western Puerto Rico during the afternoon hours.
• Wildfire in Arizona, July 21 to 31, 2019$9.0 million · 1 eventThe Museum Fire started in the Dry Lake Hills 4 miles north of downtown Flagstaff. It was human caused. The fire was hit by heavy thunderstorms rains just two days later that caused ash and debris flow out of the fire area. The final size was 1,961 acres.
• Wildfire in Idaho, July 22 to 26, 20191 eventThe Sheep wildfire began on July 22nd northeast of the Material Fuels Complex on the Idaho National Laboratory Complex. It was caused by lightning and by the afternoon of July 23rd had spread to near 90,000 acres all on the complex.
• Wildfire in Idaho, July 22 to 25, 20191 eventThe 1,300 acre fire 3 miles northeast of Shoshone began by lightning on July 22nd and burned grass and brush was controlled by July 25th. No structures were threatened.
• Wildfire in Texas, July 23 to 24, 20191 eventThe Cap Fire started July 23 one mile west of CR-413 and three miles north of Hwy-16 in Llano County. The fire burned 351 acres before it was contained on July 24.
• Wildfire in Oregon, July 24 to 29, 20191 eventThe Milepost 97 wildfire started on 7/24/19 and was reported at 2200 PDT. It was caused by human activity. The fire grew quickly, reaching 6000 acres by 26/1700 PDT. As of 0430 PDT on August 1, the fire covered 12580 acres and was 30% contained.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 25 to 31, 20191 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 8.9 miles southwest of Chimney Rock.
• Wildfire in Utah, July 26 to 31, 20191 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire about 22 miles northwest of Blanding in the Manti-La Sal National Forest.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 28, 20191 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire about 11 miles south of Rifle.
• Wildfire in California, July 28 to 31, 20191 eventThe Tucker Wildfire started around 28/1545 PDT. As of 0430 PST on August 1, the fire covered 14217 acres and was 30 percent contained. 0 structures were lost and 1.5 million dollars had been spent on firefighting efforts.
• Wildfire in Colorado, August 1 to 8, 20191 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire about 10 miles northeast of Durango.
• Wildfire in Colorado, August 1 to 3, 20191 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 8.9 miles southwest of Chimney Rock.
• Wildfire in Utah, August 1 to 17, 20191 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire about 22 miles west of Blanding in the Dark Canyon Wilderness area of the Manti-La Sal National Forest.
• Wildfire in Colorado, August 1 to 31, 20191 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire about 11 miles south of Rifle.
• Wildfire in Utah, August 1 to 17, 20191 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire about 22 miles northwest of Blanding in the Manti-La Sal National Forest.
• Wildfire in Idaho, August 1 to 31, 20191 eventThe Tincup fire began July 30th due to a lightning strike and burned the entire month of August. It was located approximately 30 miles northeast of Soda Springs. It was allowed to burn naturally and grew to 264 acres by the end of August.
• Wildfire in California, August 1 to 4, 20191 eventThe Tucker Wildfire started around 28/1545 PDT. As of the last report on 04/0330 PDT, the fire covered 14150 acres and was 100 percent contained. 0 structures were lost and 3.7 million dollars had been spent on firefighting efforts.
• Wildfire in Oregon, August 1 to 17, 20191 eventThe Milepost 97 wildfire started on 7/24/19 and was reported at 2200 PDT. It was caused by human activity. The fire grew quickly, reaching 6000 acres by 26/1700 PDT. As of the last report at 0430 PDT on August 17, the fire covered 13119 acres and was 100% contained.
• Debris Flow in Wyoming, August 1, 20191 eventA heavy rain and hailstorm caused a mudslide in Hoback Canyon. The mud and rockslide closed US 26/89 for several hours. Several vehicles were blocked between the slides. Plows had to be called out to clear the road.
• Wildfire in Idaho, August 1 to 5, 20191 eventA lightning strike caused the 4,889 acre Spud Fire approximately 12 miles southwest of Carey. It burned grass and brush and threatened no structures. It began around 5:30 PM MDT on August 1st and was controlled on August 5th.
• Wildfire in Washington, August 2 to 25, 20191 eventDuring the morning of August 2nd lightning ignited a wildfire near Keller. The Williams Flat Fire burned 44,446 acres of uninhabited timber land before being fully contained on August 25th.
• Wildfire in Oregon, August 2 to 13, 20191 eventThe East Evans Fire was initially reported as a structure fire at approximately 1400 PDT on 08/02/19. Crews arrived to a burning structure and five acres of active fire.
• Debris Flows in Colorado, August 3 to 4, 2019$15,000 · 2 eventsPulses of monsoonal moisture paired with passing mid-level disturbances led to several days of orographic showers and thunderstorms across western Colorado.
• Wildfire in Nevada, August 4 to 13, 20192 injured · $35,000 · 1 eventThe Corta fire was caused by lightning and started on August 4, 2019. It burned approximately 16,526 acres.
• Wildfire in Utah, August 6 to 29, 20191 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire about 16 miles northwest of Blanding in the Manti-La Sal National Forest.
• Wildfire in California, August 7, 2019$5,000 · 1 eventA brush fire in Oakley prompted evacuations and a preemptive power shutoff for 5600 customers. Fire officials said 58 acres were burned and 2 structures were destroyed.
• Wildfire in Texas, August 7 to 8, 20191 eventThe Morrison Wildfire began around 1711CST about 17 miles east of Plemons TX in Roberts county. The wildfire consumed approximately eighteen hundred and ninety-nine acres.
• Debris Flow in Colorado, August 7, 20191 eventSubtropical moisture was advected into western Colorado as high pressure remained centered near the Four Corners area. This led to scattered showers and thunderstorms with some storms producing heavy rain and localized debris flows in Pitkin County.
• Wildfire in Texas, August 8 to 9, 20191 eventThe Holman Wildfire began on August 8 and burned 1,100 acres before being contained on August 9.
• Wildfire in Oregon, August 9 to 19, 20191 eventThe lightning caused Ward Fire started early on the afternoon of 08/09/19. The fire rapidly spread by running and spotting, aided by topography and winds. As of the last report at 0430 PDT on 08/19/19, the fire covered 1301 acres and was 100 percent contained.
• Debris Flow in Idaho, August 9, 20191 eventOn August 9th a mud slide occurred one mile past the east fort of Baker Creek. Warm Springs Road was impassable from the west of the Hot Springs in Ketchum. 3 to 5 inches of mud covered the road.
• Wildfire in Texas, August 9 to 10, 20191 eventA wildfire was discovered in northeastern Garza County on the afternoon of the ninth. Although winds were light, the wildfire spread to 2035 acres before being contained on the afternoon of the tenth.
• Wildfire in Texas, August 11, 20191 eventThe East DD Wildfire began around 1645CST about five miles north of Glazier Texas in Lipscomb County. The wildfire was determined to have been caused by lightning. The wildfire consumed approximately one thousand acres.
• Wildfire in Idaho, August 11 to 15, 20191 eventThe Desert Ride Fire about 12 miles west of Rexburg began August 11th and was human caused.
• Wildfire in Idaho, August 15 to 16, 20191 eventThe Treasureton Fore was started bu farm equipment on August 15th at about 3:30 pm MDT about 13 miles north of Preston near Treasureton . It grew to 363 acres in rugged terrain covered by grass, brush and juniper. No structures were threatened and it was contained on August 16th.
• Wildfire in Texas, August 16 to 30, 2019$2.2 million · 1 eventThe Copper Breaks fire burned roughly 7,200 acres of land and cost nearly 2.2 million dollars in damage and for fire suppression.
• Wildfire in Oklahoma, August 16, 20191 eventA wildfire burned roughly 350 acres on the 16th.
• Wildfire in Texas, August 16 to 17, 20191 eventThe Roger Group Wildfire began around 1829CST about nine miles south southwest of Tascosa Texas in Oldham County or about twelve miles south of Vega Texas on US Highway 385.
• Wildfire in Texas, August 17, 20191 eventThe Duke Road Wildfire began about five miles northwest of Lipscomb Texas in Lipscomb County around 0240CST. The wildfire was determined to have been caused by lightning.
• Wildfire in Idaho, August 17 to 18, 20191 eventA fire began between 1 and 2 pm MDT due to sparks from a broken drive line on a vehicle and spread to both sides of US Highway 26. Highway 26 closed for a period of time due to the fire near mile marker 300.
• Wildfire in Texas, August 17 to 18, 20191 eventThe Green Juniper Wildfire began around 1334CST about twelve miles northwest of Paloduro TX in Armstrong county.
• Wildfire and Damaging Wind in Texas, August 17 to 24, 201957 kt wind · 2 eventsIsolated thunderstorms developed across the Rolling Plains on the afternoon and evening of the 17th. One of these thunderstorms became severe as it moved near Spur (Dickens County) producing a wind gust to 66 mph.
• Wildfire in Colorado, August 17 to 23, 20191 eventA lightning strike most likely ignited a wildfire 16 miles southwest of Hayden.
• Wildfire in Oklahoma, August 18 to 20, 20191 eventHot temperatures, gusty wind, and drying fuels promoted the rapid spread of several large wildfires in eastern Oklahoma during the middle of August. Wildfires burned over 900 acres in Pushmataha County from the 18th through the 20th.
• Wildfire in Nevada, August 18 to 22, 2019$10,000 · 1 eventThe Big Bend Fire burned 225 acres south of Laughlin and destroyed a few power poles along Needles Highway.
• Wildfire in Texas, August 19, 20191 eventThe Urschel Ranch Wildfire began around 1205CST about 6 WSW Lake Marvin in Hemphill County. The wildfire was determined to have been caused by lightning on the Urschel Ranch. The wildfire consumed one thousand one hundred and ninety-three acres.
• Wildfire in Oklahoma, August 19 to 21, 20191 eventThe Hitch HQ Command Wildfire began around 1753CST about four miles north northwest of Hitchland Texas in Texas County Oklahoma or roughly a half mile east of Hitch HQ off Mile 35 Road. The wildfire was determined to have been caused by dry lightning.
• Wildfire in Texas, August 20 to 30, 2019$1.5 million · 1 eventThe Vivian fire burned over 12,000 acres and cost roughly 1.5 million dollars in damage and suppression costs.
• Wildfire in Colorado, August 21 to 22, 20191 eventA wildfire began from human causes approximately 2.5 miles east of Dinosaur National Monument.
• Wildfire in California, August 22 to 26, 20193 injured · 1 eventHigh pressure brought hot and dry weather to northern California from August 23 through August 26, 2019. Temperatures were forecast to be 5 to 10 degrees above normal.
• Wildfire in Wyoming, August 24 to 31, 20191 eventA lightning-caused wildfire intensified in the end of August burning over twenty-three thousand acres in addition to destroying four buildings. The buildings included outbuildings and permanent or seasonal homes.
• Wildfire in California, August 24 to 27, 20191 eventWarm temperatures, along with dry conditions, occurred the 23rd through the end of the month. Breezy conditions occurred on the 24th and 25th, but combined effects of winds and humidity did not reach critical fire weather criteria.
• Wildfire in Nevada, August 24 to 27, 20191 eventWarm temperatures, along with dry conditions, occurred the 23rd through the end of the month. Breezy conditions occurred on the 24th and 25th, but combined effects of winds and humidity did not reach critical fire weather criteria.
• Wildfire in Texas, August 25 to 27, 20192 eventsA couple of large wildfires occurred over Goliad and Refugio Counties. The wildfires were started by lightning strikes. Each wildfire burned over 1000 acres of mainly tall grass and brush.
• Wildfire in Texas, August 30, 20191 eventThe Bravo Wildfire began around 1509CST about ten miles south southeast of Romero Texas in Oldham County. The wildfire was determined to be caused by lightning. The wildfire consumed one thousand one hundred and thirty-four acres.
• Wildfire in Colorado, September 1 to 30, 20191 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire about 11 miles south of Rifle.
• Wildfire in Wyoming, September 1 to 11, 20191 eventA lightning-caused wildfire started in August and continuing into September burned over twenty-three thousand acres in addition to destroying seven buildings. The buildings included outbuildings and permanent or seasonal homes.
• Wildfire in Wyoming, September 1 to 4, 20191 eventA bundle of Mylar Balloons were caught in power lines and caused an electrical arc that started a fire near the northern end of Jackson. Strong winds and dry fuels caused the fire to spread rapidly and led to the evacuation of the Saddle Butte subdivision.
• Wildfire in California, September 1, 20191 eventTwo small grass fires broke out in southern Monterey County on Sunday September 1st. Multiple CalFire firefighters were injured.
• Wildfire in Washington, September 1, 20191 death · $10,000 · 1 eventA wildfire began in the range land near the town of Okanogan during the afternoon of September 1st. The fire burned 142 acres and damaged vehicles parked in a field near a garage.
• Wildfire in Wyoming, September 2 to 30, 20191 eventThe Fishhawk Fire was started by lightning and was discovered on September 2nd around 40 miles west of Cody. A combination of hot, dry weather, low humidity and gusty winds allowed for rapid spread of the fire through the 5th of September.
• Wildfire in California, September 4 to 25, 20191 eventAt the beginning of September, little to no rainfall fell on areas of the northern Sierra and mountains west of Susanville. Dry and warm conditions also persisted. A large wildfire started during this period.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, September 4 to 5, 20191 eventTwo fires burned about 200 acres of dry brush in leeward Oahu in Kunia. Five individuals were asked to leave their homes for a time as firefighters contained the combined blaze. Three storage containers were damaged in the Kunia Farm lots. However, no injuries were reported.
• Wildfire in California, September 4 to 30, 20191 injured · $100,000 · 1 eventThe Taboose Fire began southwest of Big Pine on the afternoon of September 4 due to a lightning strike. The fire destroyed four vehicles at Red Lake Trailhead on September 7, and eventually reached 10,296 acres before being contained on October 16.
• Wildfire in California, September 5 to 22, 20191 eventNumerous thunderstorms moved across the area on 9/5/19. Dozens of fires were initiated by lightning. One of them was the Lime Wildfire, which was started by a lightning strike at 05/1119 PDT.
• Wildfire in California, September 5, 20192 eventsAn upper level low with embedded disturbances brought isolated showers and thunderstorms to the region. Model data indicated that any available moisture would be|above 700 millibars so rainfall with any thunderstorms would be limited.
• Wildfire in Colorado, September 5 to 30, 20191 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire about 32 miles west-northwest of Rifle north of Roan Plateau.
• Wildfire in California, September 5 to 17, 20191 eventNumerous thunderstorms moved across the area on 9/5/19. Dozens of fires were initiated by lightning. One of them was the Lone Wildfire, which was started by a lightning strike at 05/1614 PDT.
• Wildfire in Idaho, September 5 to 7, 20191 eventLightning caused a 10,000 acre 12 miles northwest of Aberdeen on September 5th. It burned grassland in remote areas on Bureau of Land Management property. No structures were threatened. Rain stopped a spread of the fire.
• Wildfire in California, September 5 to 21, 20191 eventNumerous thunderstorms moved across the area on 9/5/19. Dozens of fires were initiated by lightning. One of them was the Kidder 2 Wildfire, which was started by a lightning strike at 05/1845 PDT.
• Wildfire in Oregon, September 5 to 24, 20191 eventNumerous thunderstorms moved across the area on 9/5/19. Dozens of fires were initiated by lightning. One of them was the Poker Wildfire, which was started by a lightning strike sometime on September 5th.
• Wildfire in Oregon, September 5 to 27, 20191 eventNumerous thunderstorms moved across the area on 9/5/19. Dozens of fires were initiated by lightning. One of them was the Gopher Wildfire, which started off as five fires, all ignited by lightning strikes around 05/1915 PDT. The fires merged into one fire.
• Debris Flow and Flooding in Puerto Rico, September 6 to 8, 20197 eventsThe combination of a deep-layered trough, abundant moisture in combination with strong daytime heating and local effects resulted in rounds of heavy showers and thunderstorms across different portions of Puerto Rico during the afternoon hours between September 6th and September…
• Wildfire in Texas, September 6 to 7, 20191 eventThe Birdwell South Wildfire began around 1600CST about three miles south of Boise Texas in Deaf Smith County. The wildfire was determined to have been caused by dry lightning. The wildfire consumed six hundred and fifty-four acres.
• Wildfire in California, September 7, 20191 eventA short wave trough moved over the region bringing synoptic cooling and cloudiness with it. Drier fuels were still in place and locally breezy winds were expected, thus there was a small risk for wildfire development.
• Wildfire in Oklahoma, September 15 to 18, 20191 eventHot temperatures and drying fuels promoted the rapid spread of several large wildfires in southeastern Oklahoma during this middle of September. Wildfires burned over 1800 acres in Pushmataha County from the 15th through the 18th.
• Debris Flow and Flooding in California, September 16 to 18, 2019$6.5 million · 8 eventsA series of cold, upper level ldisturbances tracked across northern California from September 16-18. This brought showers, thunderstorms, and high elevation snow to the region. Flooding and wind damage were the main impacts from this storm.
• Wildfire in Kentucky, September 16, 20191 eventAs hot and dry September conditions continued into the middle of the month, one notable wildfire occurred in Perry County in mid September near Sassafras and Vicco. The fire got close to a home as it spread into kudzu near the home.
• Wildfire in Colorado, September 17 to 18, 20191 eventA lightning strike most likely ignited a wildfire about 8 miles west of Craig.
• Wildfire in Colorado, September 21 to 30, 20191 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire about 13 miles east-northeast of Aspen.
• Wildfire in Tennessee, September 21, 20191 eventWarm, dry and breezy conditions across the Mid-South help set the stage for a wildfire in Tipton County.
• Wildfire in Colorado, September 28 to 30, 20191 eventA lightning strike most likely ignited a wildfire about 7 miles west-northwest of Meeker.
• Wildfire in Colorado, September 29 to 30, 20191 eventA lightning strike most likely ignited a wildfire about 3 miles east-northeast of Rangely.
• Wildfire in Kentucky, September 30, 20191 eventA wildfire at Sky Bridge in the Red River Gorge forced the closure of the area as record warmth and dryness primed fuels for burning. The initial source of ignition was an abandoned campfire that was not extinguished fully.
• Wildfire in Kentucky, October 1 to 6, 20191 eventA wildfire at Sky Bridge in the Red River Gorge, which began on September 30th, continued to burn until October 6th. The main impact from this fire was the closure of the area into the first week of October.
• Wildfire in Colorado, October 1 to 2, 20191 eventA lightning strike most likely ignited a wildfire about 7 miles west-northwest of Meeker.
• Wildfire in Colorado, October 1 to 17, 20191 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire about 32 miles west-northwest of Rifle north of Roan Plateau.
• Wildfire in Colorado, October 1 to 31, 20191 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire about 11 miles south of Rifle.
• Wildfire in Colorado, October 1 to 30, 20191 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire about 13 miles east-northeast of Aspen.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, October 2 to 7, 20191 eventA wind-swept fire began upslope from Maalaea in Maui, in the West Maui Mountains, that eventually consumed around 4600 acres of dry brush. The flames forced the evacuation of more than 450 residents along Maalaea Bay Road as the blaze moved close to homes in the area.
• Debris Flow in Alaska, October 6, 2019$637,000 · 1 eventOn the night of October 5th through the morning of the 6th, two weather systems merged over the Northeast Gulf of Alaska producing a strong and moist weather front. This front moved through Southeast Alaska causing strong winds and heavy rain.
• Wildfire in California, October 6 to 7, 20191 eventWarm and dry conditions along with offshore winds created elevated fire concerns for the region. A small vegetation fire broke out in Napa County that destroyed one structure.
• Wildfire and Strong Wind in California, October 9 to 31, 20197 injured · $18,000 · 6 eventsExtreme fire weather conditions were forecast for Oct 9 and 10 as northern California was caught between a ridge over the eastern Pacific and a trough over the Great Basin.
• Wildfire and Strong Wind in California, October 9 to 10, 20193 eventsStrong and gusty northerly winds developed over the North and East Bay Hills. This along with a very dry airmass over the region, created critical fire weather conditions for the greater Bay Area.
• Wildfire and High Wind in California, October 10 to 14, 20192 deaths · $8.1 million · 63 kt wind · 6 eventsHigh pressure over the Great Basin brought moderate Santa Ana winds to southern California October 10th and 11th. Peak wind gusts of 60-65 mph were observed in the Cajon Pass, San Bernardino, Fontana and Fremont Canyon.
• Wildfire in California, October 10 to 24, 20193 deaths · 24 injured · 3 eventsThe Saddleridge Fire burned over 8700 acres in the foothills of the San Fernando Valley in Los Angeles county. The combination of warm and dry Santa Ana winds as well as critically dry vegetation allowed for rapid fire growth.
• Debris Flow in Puerto Rico, October 11, 20191 eventThe combination of low-level moisture, diurnal and local effects resulted in showers and thunderstorms across interior and northern portions of Puerto Rico.
• Wildfire in Colorado, October 16 to 31, 20191 eventA wildfire, 9 mile east of Ridgway, burned uncontrolled for several weeks after an extremely dry summer.
• Wildfire in Kansas, October 21, 20191 eventOn a day with very strong wind gusts, a wildfire breaks out roughly 6 miles west of Herndon, KS in Rawlins County. The fire burns approximately 1500 acres and results in some cattle losses. In addition, 2 wooden bridges are destroyed, one for a county road and one for a railroad.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, October 22 to 24, 20191 eventDry vegetation and a breezy wind flow contributed to the ignition and spreading of a nearly 1000-acre blaze over leeward West Maui. It started in Kahana above the Kapalua Airport and spread along the ridge line in that section of the West Maui Mountains.
• Wildfire and High Wind in California, October 23 to 31, 20194 injured · 66 kt wind · 9 eventsA series of offshore wind events plagued much of California towards the end of October. Cut off lows (also known as insider sliders) moved into the Great Basin as an upper ridge sat over the eastern Pacific.
• Wildfire in California, October 24 to 31, 20198 injured · 2 eventsThe Tick Fire burned over 4600 acres in the Canyon County area of Los Angeles county. The combination of warm and dry Santa Ana winds as well as critically dry vegetation allowed for significant fire growth. The fire destroyed and damaged numerous residences.
• Debris Flows and Flooding in Puerto Rico, October 26, 20195 eventsSufficient low-level moisture combined with diurnal heating and local effects to result in the development of heavy showers and thunderstorms across most of southwest Puerto Rico.
• Wildfire in Nebraska, October 26, 2019$45,000 · 1 eventA 2100 acre range fire tracked across far southwestern Chase county during the afternoon and early evening hours of October 26th. The fire was started by a combine and quickly moved south approximately 3 miles, burning approximately 2100 acres of grassland.
• Wildfire and High Wind in California, October 27 to 29, 20191 death · $4,000 · 89 kt wind · 19 eventsA series of offshore wind events plagued much of California towards the end of October. Cut off lows (also known as insider sliders) moved into the Great Basin as an upper ridge sat over the eastern Pacific.
• Wildfire in California, October 28 to 31, 20191 eventThe Getty Fire burned over 700 acres across the Santa Monica Mountains, near the Getty Museum. The combination of warm and dry Santa Ana winds and critically dry vegetation allowed for rapid fire growth. The fire damaged or destroyed 25 residences.
• Wildfire and Winter Weather in Washington, October 28 to 29, 2019$200,000 · 4 eventsDuring the afternoon and evening hours of October 28th a strong arctic cold front descended out of Canada and into eastern Washington.
• Wildfire and High Wind in California, October 29 to 30, 201956 kt wind · 4 eventsThe third and final in a series of offshore wind events arrived at the end of October resulting in another round of Red Flag Warnings and Wind Advisories.
• Wildfire in California, October 30 to 31, 20193 injured · 1 eventThe Easy Fire started in late October across the coastal valleys of Ventura county, near the community of Simi Valley. The fire continued to burn into early November, before being contained. The fire burned over 1800 acres.
• Wildfire and High Wind in California, October 30 to 31, 20192 injured · $4.2 million · 63 kt wind · 13 eventsHigh pressure over the Great Basin brought high winds and single digit relative humidity to southern California. Gusty Santa Ana winds were reported in the mountains and passes, with peak gusts topping out 60-70 mph. The windiest location was Fremont Canyon at 73 mph.
• Wildfire in California, October 31, 20193 eventsThe Maria Fire started in late October across the valleys of Ventura county, near the community of Santa Paula. Due to warm and dry Santa Ana winds and critically dry vegetation, the fire burned into early November, eventually burning 9999 acres.
• Wildfire in Colorado, November 1 to 8, 20191 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire about 11 miles south of Rifle.
• Wildfire in Colorado, November 1 to 25, 20191 eventA wildfire, 9 mile east of Ridgway, burned uncontrolled for several weeks after an extremely dry summer.
• Wildfire in California, November 1 to 6, 20194 injured · 1 eventThe Kincade Fire was sparked in the evening of October 23rd during the first of a series of offshore wind events. The second event in late October promoted the rapid spread of the Kincade Fire across portions of Sonoma County.
• Wildfire in California, November 1 to 5, 20193 eventsThe Maria Fire started in late October across the valleys of Ventura county, near the community of Santa Paula. Due to warm and dry Santa Ana winds and critically dry vegetation, the fire burned into early November, eventually burning 9999 acres.
• Wildfire in California, November 1 to 2, 20191 eventThe Easy Fire started in late October across the coastal valleys of Ventura county, near the community of Simi Valley. The fire continued to burn into early November, before being contained. The fire burned over 1800 acres.
• Wildfire in Nebraska, November 1, 2019$50,000 · 1 eventA large range fire spread across portions of central Garden county during the late afternoon and evening of November 1st. Aided by strong northwesterly winds, the fire quickly spread to the south southeast, destroying approximately 3300 acres of grassland.
• Wildfire in Kansas, November 9 to 10, 20191 eventA wildfire which started in Cheyenne County, KS during elevated fire weather conditions quickly spread throughout the northeast portions of the county, requiring the response of local, state, and federal agencies to fight the fire.
• Wildfire in Nebraska, November 16, 20191 eventA campfire sparked a 600 acre range fire at the Nebraska National Forest on November 16th. The fire consumed mainly grassland and did not move into forested areas of the National Forest.
• Wildfire in Texas, November 26, 20191 eventThe Brittain Ranch Wildfire began around 1230CST about five miles north northeast of Stinnett Texas in Hutchinson County. The cause of the wildfire was determined to be from downed power lines. The wildfire consumed approximately two thousand acres.
• Wildfire in Texas, November 26, 20191 eventThe Highway 83 and FM 23 Wildfire began around 1343CST about ten miles south southeast of Wolf Creek Park in Ochiltree county. The wildfire consumed fourteen thousand nine hundred and eighty-six acres.
• Wildfire in Oklahoma, November 26 to 27, 2019$100,000 · 1 eventThe Mooreland/Highway 50 Fire burned 764 acres and destroyed 2 structures. Evacuations were ordered for the town of Mooreland.
• Wildfire in Oklahoma, November 26 to 27, 2019$1,000 · 1 eventA wildfire burned roughly 8,275 acres and destroyed 1 outbuilding. The town of Fargo was also evacuated.
• Wildfire in Oklahoma, November 26 to 27, 20191 eventA wildfire burned roughly 432 acres near Moorewood.
• Wildfire in Texas, November 26, 20191 eventThe Olleninger Wildfire began around 1647CST about six miles southeast of Claude Texas in Armstrong County. The wildfire consumed roughly four hundred and thirty acres. There were no reports of any homes or other structures threatened, damaged or destroyed from the wildfire.
• Wildfire in Oklahoma, November 26 to 27, 20191 eventA wildfire burned nearly 503 acres near the town of Thomas.
• Debris Flows and Flooding in California, December 1 to 5, 201954 kt wind · 52 eventsA low pressure system moving in from the Gulf of Alaska and drawing in moisture from the tropics combined to bring the first atmospheric river event of the winter season to the Greater Bay Area.
• Debris Flow and Heavy Snow in California, December 1 to 3, 201920 eventsAn atmospheric river associated with a midlatitude cyclone brought greater than 2 inches of rainfall to the Sierra Nevada and 1 to 2 feet of snowfall above 7000 feet in the Lake Tahoe Basin and in Mono County.

Every billion-dollar disasterEvery storm of 2019Tornadoes in 2019

NOAA NCEI, U.S. Billion-Dollar Weather and Climate Disasters (2025), https://doi.org/10.25921/stkw-7w73, and the Storm Events Database for the episodes.