U.S. Drought

Losses, 2024 dollars

$16 billion

Losses at the time

$9.0 billion

Deaths

0

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.

• Heat in New Jersey, February 28, 200220 eventsFebruary concluded the 2001-2 meteorological winter season with another month of warmer than normal temperatures. Every winter month was warmer than normal and the winter as a whole was one of the five warmest winters on record for New Jersey.
• Heat in Pennsylvania, February 28, 200210 eventsFebruary concluded the 2001-2 meteorological winter season with another month of warmer than normal temperatures. Every winter month was warmer than normal and the winter as a whole was one of the five warmest winters on record for Eastern Pennsylvania.
• Heat in Maryland, February 28, 20025 eventsFebruary concluded the 2001-2 meteorological winter season with another month of warmer than normal temperatures. Every winter month was warmer than normal and the winter as a whole was one of the ten warmest winters on record for the Eastern Shore.
• Heat in Delaware, February 28, 20024 eventsFebruary concluded the 2001-2 meteorological winter season with another month of warmer than normal temperatures. Every winter month was warmer than normal and the winter as a whole was one of the five warmest winters on record for Delaware.
• Drought in New Jersey, March 1 to 31, 200220 eventsNew Jersey entered March 2002 with considerably dry conditions and a drought warning in effect for most of the state. The northern New Jersey and New York City Reservoirs were at about 40 percent of capacity, well below normal.
• Drought in Georgia, March 1 to 31, 200216 eventsDrought conditions continued over southeast Georgia. Rainfall was slightly above normal at a few places but rainfall generally occurred in scattered thunderstorms.
• Drought in Pennsylvania, March 1 to 31, 200210 eventsEastern Pennsylvania entered arch 2002 with considerably dry conditions and a drought emergency in effect. Governor Mark Schweiker upgraded the drought warning to a drought emergency for all of Eastern Pennsylvania on February 12th.
• Drought in South Carolina, March 1 to 31, 20029 eventsDrought conditions continued over south coastal South Carolina. Wildfires became more prevalent with numerous small fires throughout the month.
• Drought in Maryland, March 1 to 31, 20025 eventsMarch 2002 was the first month since August of 2001 where precipitation was wetter than normal. Precipitation events on March 2nd and 3rd, 12th and 13th, 17th and 18th, 20th and 31st resulted in above normal precipitation for the Maryland Eastern Shore.
• Drought in Delaware, March 1 to 31, 20024 eventsDelaware entered arch 2002 with considerably dry conditions. Twenty-one of the thirty gaged streams in Maryland and Delaware as well as seven of the seventeen monitored groundwater wells were at record low levels.
• Drought in Texas, March 1 to 31, 20028 eventsDue to lack of rainfall and water shortages, moderate to severe drought conditions continue to persist over Deep South Texas.
• Drought in Arizona, March 1 to 31, 20021 eventRecord dry weather continued in the month of March in northern Arizona. By March 21st, the Flagstaff airport had the driest winter on record. The normal amount of precipitation between December 21 and March 21 for the Flagstaff airport is 7.08 inches.
• Drought in New Mexico, March 1 to 31, 200222 eventsDry late winter and early spring conditions continued to raise fears of an early and extended fire weather season, while projections for snow melt runoff of only 30-40 percent of normal threatened a lack of irrigation water as farmers were gearing up for planting season and…
• Wildfire in Maryland, March 1 to 13, 20021 eventDrought conditions resulted in very dry timber and brush. This caused a brush fire that began on Wills Mountain on March 1st to quickly spread. The fire burned 100 acres of woodland before being contained on the 2nd. The fire was extinguished on the 13th.
• Wildfire in Pennsylvania, March 1, 20021 eventA brush fire occurred during the afternoon of the 1st on Lower Gap Road in Aquashicola (Lower Towamensing Township).
• Wildfire in California, March 2, 2002$5,000 · 1 eventA wild fire fanned by 30-40 mph winds, consumed a 20 foot by 20 foot stack of wooden pallets and 5 acres of brush before it was put out.
• Wildfire in New Jersey, March 10, 20021 eventTwo separate marsh fires occurred in the Bayville section of Berkeley Township (Ocean County). Strong gusty northwest winds helped spread the fires quickly. Both occurred during the afternoon and within a mile of each other.
• Wildfire in New Jersey, March 10, 20021 eventA brush fire, largely exacerbated the strong gusty westnorthwest winds, scorched about 200 acres of brush in the Port Monmouth section of Middletown Township around 5 p.m. EST. The fire began near Main Street and Broadway.
• Wildfire in West Virginia, March 10 to 18, 2002$10,000 · 1 eventDrought conditions resulted in very dry brush and woodlands. This allowed a fire which was started by human activity near Seneca Rocks on March 10th to spread rapidly. It burned 87 acres of mainly private land before being brought under control on the 15th.
• Heat in Georgia, March 15 to 21, 200297 eventsUnseasonably warm temperatures prevailed across north and central for several days as a summer like ridge of high pressure aloft and a Bermuda like surface high pressure system dominated the southeastern United States.
• Heat in Alabama, March 16, 20021 eventThe afternoon high temperature recorded at Dannelly Field was 85 degrees. This temperature tied the previous record high.
• Wildfire and Dust Storm in California, March 16 to 17, 20022 eventsHigh wind caused a dust storm in the Coachella Valley and aggravated a brush fire the next day. More than 100 acres burned before the fire was controlled.
• Heat in Alabama, March 17, 20021 eventThe afternoon high temperature observed at Dannelly Field was 85 degrees. This temperature tied the previous record high.
• Wildfire in California, March 21 to 22, 20021 eventA brush fire that began from a live artillery exercise, burned 2400 acres before full containment. There were no injuries, and no structures were damaged. Visibility at the Camp Pendleton airport was briefly down to 1 1/4 miles in smoke.
• Wildfire in New Jersey, March 22, 20021 eventA wildfire destroyed about 10 acres of brush in National Park (Gloucester County).
• Wildfire in New Jersey, March 24, 20021 eventA wildfire destroyed over 20 acres of brush in West Deptford Township. The drought contributed to the increase in the number of wild and brush fires in Gloucester County. Through March 28th, there were 163 brush fires in the county as compared to 76 at the same time in 2001.
• Wildfire in New Mexico, March 24 to 26, 2002$5.0 million · 1 eventWinds of 45 to 55 mph whipped an accidential fire into a fast moving wildfire that consumed 12,000 acres and 20 homes before crews and air tank attacks gained control in much lighter winds.
• Drought in Georgia, April 1 to 30, 200297 eventsA summerlike weather pattern dominated north Georgia much of the month, resulting in several days of above normal temperatures and a lack of organized precipitation producing systems.
• Drought in New Jersey, April 1 to 30, 200220 eventsNew Jersey entered April 2002 with a drought emergency in effect for the entire state with mandatory watering restrictions in place. Water usage statewide was down about 5 to 10 percent.
• Drought in Georgia, April 1 to 30, 200216 eventsModerate to severe drought conditions persisted over southeast Georgia through the month of May. Only .39 inches fell for the entire month and most of it (.28 in) fell on the 10th. The deficit for the month was 2.93 inches.
• Drought in New York, April 1 to 30, 200215 eventsA wetter pattern developed during late March that lasted through April. Although April precipitation amounts rebounded, they still remained slightly below normal. April was the tenth consecutive month of below normal precipitation across the region.
• Drought in Pennsylvania, April 1 to 30, 200210 eventsEastern Pennsylvania entered April 2002 with improving weather conditions with respect to the drought, but the drought emergency remained in effect for all of Eastern Pennsylvania with mandatory watering restrictions in place.
• Drought in South Carolina, April 1 to 30, 20029 eventsModerate to severe drought conditions persisted over south coastal South Carolina through the month of May. Rainfall for the month was 1.56 inches, which was just a little over half of the normal. However, 1.22 inches of that amount fell on the 10th.
• Drought in Connecticut, April 1 to 30, 20028 eventsA wetter pattern developed during late March that lasted through April. Although April precipitation amounts rebounded, they still remained slightly below normal. April was the tenth consecutive month of below normal precipitation across the region.
• Drought in New Jersey, April 1 to 30, 20026 eventsA wetter pattern developed during late March that lasted through April. Although April precipitation amounts rebounded, they still remained slightly below normal. April was the tenth consecutive month of below normal precipitation across the region.
• Drought in Maryland, April 1 to 30, 20025 eventsPrecipitation during April of 2002 was close to normal across the Maryland Eastern Shore. On a county weighted average, April monthly precipitation totals ranged from 3.0 inches in Cecil and Talbot Counties to 3.9 inches in Caroline County. Normal is around 3.4 inches.
• Drought in Delaware, April 1, 20024 eventsApril monthly precipitation across Delaware was near normal in New Castle County (3.2 inches on a county weighted average) and wetter than normal across Kent (4.9 inches) and Sussex (4.3 inches) Counties. Normal is around 3.5 inches.
• Drought in Texas, April 1 to 30, 20028 eventsExtreme drought conditions have developed over all of Deep South Texas during the month of April 2002. Showers and thunderstorms occurring during the first week of April, provided the only rainfall during the month.
• Drought in Colorado, April 1 to 30, 200221 eventsApril, normally the third snowiest month of the year with just over 9 inches, ended up being the third driest April on record for Denver. Only a trace of snow was recorded for the month with .23 inches liquid precipitation.
• Drought in Arizona, April 1 to 30, 20021 eventDrought conditions continued through out the month of April. Just over half of an inch (0.51) of rain fell early in the month which was 0.78 inches below normal (1.29). For the year, 1.22 inches of precipitation fell which is 7.43 inches below the normal of 8.65 inches.
• Drought in New Mexico, April 1 to 30, 200221 eventsDry conditions prevailed throughout the month for much of northern and central New Mexico. Afternoon breezes fanned several fires into major fire storms and elsewhere poor nighttime recovery of humidity levels left forest crews struggling to contain smaller blazes.
• Wildfire in New Mexico, April 1 to 3, 20021 eventA small lightning caused fire that began several days earlier in south central Catron county was fanned into a extremely fast moving wildfire that raced through the tree tops and consumed 37,000 acres of timber and grassland.
• Wildfire in New Jersey, April 2 to 3, 20021 eventA fast moving brush fire developed off of County Route 517 in Vernon Township during the afternoon of the 2nd. Gusty winds in excess of 20 mph helped spread the fire toward the northwest. The fire scorched pieces of the Appalachian Trail and jumped low running streams.
• Wildfire in California, April 9 to 14, 20021 injured · $50,000 · 1 eventA brush fire that began on 4/9/02 was brought under control on 4/11/02 after burning 105 acres, several power poles, and threatening 20 homes.
• Wildfire in Wyoming, April 13 to 14, 2002$261,000 · 1 eventHow the fire was started can not be confirmed. After fire started, winds of 50 mph rapidly spread the fire across Superior. Four homes were destroyed, 23 buildings were destroyed, including garages and sheds. Also, 9 vehicles were destroyed.
• Excessive Heat in New York, April 15 to 19, 20021 eventThe seasons first Bermuda high developed by April 15th, and began pumping unseasonably warm air across eastern New York and adjacent western New England.
• Heat in Wisconsin, April 15 to 18, 20021 death · 20 eventsAn out-of-season heat wave affected south-central and southeast Wisconsin thanks to a very warm, moist airmass which settled in for the 4-day period of April 15-18.
• Heat in Georgia, April 16 to 22, 200297 eventsUnseasonably warm conditions prevailed across north and central Georgia for several consecutive days as a summerlike ridge of high pressure, centered in the eastern Gulf of Mexico, and a Bermuda surface high pressure system dominated the southeastern United States.
• Excessive Heat in West Virginia, April 16, 200234 eventsAfternoon temperatures reached into the mid 80s to the lower 90s, for most communities. The warmest temperature was 93 degrees from Hamlin on Lincoln County.
• Excessive Heat in Ohio, April 16, 20029 eventsAfternoon temperatures reached into the mid 80s to around 90 degrees. Athens and Jackson registered 90 degrees, while Gallipolis saw 89 degrees.
• Excessive Heat in Kentucky, April 16, 20024 eventsAfternoon temperatures reached into the upper 80s and lower 90s. Ashland had 91 degrees, while Grayson and Charley saw 90 degrees.
• Excessive Heat in Virginia, April 16, 20022 eventsAfternoon temperatures reached into the mid 80s to near 90 degrees. Grundy measured 90 degrees. Clintwood had 88 degrees, while Breaks Interstate Park had 87 degrees.
• Wildfire in Colorado, April 16, 2002$40,000 · 1 eventStrong winds caused a tree branch to hit a power line, which ignited a blaze in Teller county. The fire grew to between 100 and 200 acres before it was put out. One structure was destroyed.
• Wildfire in North Dakota, April 16, 2002$250,000 · 1 eventA grass fire was started by an unknown source and rapidly spread due to the dry grasses and gusty winds. It quickly spread into a 10 mile long area and burned 5750 acres of grass, mostly CRP land along the alkali flats in the Red River Valley.
• Wildfire and Lightning Strike in New Jersey, April 18, 20022 eventsAn active thunderstorm caused a couple of lightning strike damage in Hamilton Township during the late afternoon of the 18th.
• Wildfire and Lightning Strike in Pennsylvania, April 19, 20022 eventsA lightning strike ignited a forest fire in the Buck Hill area of Barrett Township. The strike struck Bush Mountain about 400 yards off of Pennsylvania State Route 191and about two miles from the Wayne County line.
• Wildfire in California, April 21, 20021 eventA pilot reported visibility in smoke as a half mile in smoke, coming from a fire in Santa Ana Canyon.
• Wildfire in Colorado, April 28, 20021 eventA wildfire, started by sparks from a lawn mower, consumed 64 acres and threatened 7 structures in the Pine Glen subdivision.
• Wildfire in Arizona, April 29 to 30, 2002$90,000 · 1 eventThe Ryan fire was started by a campfire in Coronado National Forest at Canelo Hill on April 29th and continued through May 4th. The fire burned 38,800 acres with estimated total fire fighting cost of 1.2 million dollars. The fire burned one house and several outbuildings.
• Wildfire in Colorado, April 30, 2002$100,000 · 1 eventThe Cuerno Verde fire was human caused, when a yard clean-up project was fanned by high winds. The fire burned around 600 acres of trees and meadows. Two homes were destroyed. It cost around $500,000 to fight the fire. The fire was not contained until May 1st.
• Drought in New Jersey, May 1 to 31, 200220 eventsNew Jersey entered May 2002 with a drought emergency in effect for the entire state with mandatory watering restrictions in place. Water usage statewide was down about 5 to 10 percent.
• Drought in Georgia, May 1 to 31, 200216 eventsModerate to severe drought conditions continued over southeast Georgia as rainfall was only .99 inches which was 2.62 inches below normal. This continued a trend of deficit rainfall over the area.
• Drought in New York, May 1 to 31, 200215 eventsA wetter pattern developed during late March that lasted through May. The tri-state region saw drought conditions relax a bit due to some very beneficial rains and some diligent water use restrictions and conservation measures.
• Drought in Pennsylvania, May 1 to 31, 200210 eventsEastern Pennsylvania entered May 2002 with improving weather conditions with respect to the drought, but the drought emergency remained in effect for all of Eastern Pennsylvania with mandatory watering restrictions in place.
• Drought in South Carolina, May 1 to 31, 20029 eventsModerate to severe drought conditions continued over south coastal South Carolina through the month of May. Rainfall for the month was 2.39 inches which was 1.28 inches below the normal for the month. This continued the trend of deficit rain fall.
• Drought in Connecticut, May 1 to 31, 20028 eventsA wetter pattern developed during late March that lasted through May. The tri-state region saw drought conditions relax a bit due to some very beneficial rains and some diligent water use restrictions and conservation measures.
• Drought in New Jersey, May 1 to 31, 20026 eventsA wetter pattern developed during late March that lasted through May. The tri-state region saw drought conditions relax a bit due to some very beneficial rains and some diligent water use restrictions and conservation measures.
• Drought in Maryland, May 1 to 31, 20025 eventsPrecipitation during May of 2002 was drier than normal in Talbot and Caroline Counties and around normal in Cecil, Kent and Queen Anne's Counties.
• Drought in Delaware, May 1 to 31, 20024 eventsMay monthly precipitation across Delaware was drier than normal in Sussex County (2.9 inches on a county weighted average), near normal in Kent County (4.0 inches) and wetter than normal in New Castle County (4.7 inches). Normal is around 3.9 inches.
• Drought in Colorado, May 1 to 31, 200221 eventsMay was the first full month of severe to extreme drought conditions in western Colorado. The most intense drought classification, exceptional drought conditions, had developed in the southwest corner of the state by the end of the month.
• Drought in Kansas, May 1 to 31, 200213 eventsDrought conditions persisted into May across much of NW Kansas. Precipitation has averaged 30 to 50 percent of normal since January 1.
• Drought in Utah, May 1 to 31, 20027 eventsMay was the first full month of severe to extreme drought conditions in eastern Utah. The most intense drought classification, exceptional drought conditions, had developed in the southeast corner of the state by the end of the month.
• Drought in Colorado, May 1 to 31, 20023 eventsSevere to extreme drought conditions persisted across most of eastern Colorado through May. Year-to-date rainfall has averaged 2 to 4 inches, which is 40 to 60 percent of normal.
• Drought in Nebraska, May 1 to 31, 20023 eventsModerate to severe drought conditions persisted during May. Total precipitation since January 1 has averaged 2 to 4 inches, which is 40 to 50 percent of normal.
• Wildfire in Colorado, May 1, 2002$100,000 · 1 eventThe Cuerno Verde fire, which started April 30th, was contained on this date. Two residences were destroyed. It cost $500,000 to fight the fire.
• Drought in New Mexico, May 1 to 31, 200222 eventsDrought conditions persisted through the month maintaining the high fire danger all across the region and forcing widespread sell offs of cattle since rangelands carried practically no spring grasses.
• Wildfire in Arizona, May 1 to 4, 2002$90,000 · 1 eventThe Ryan fire was started by a campfire in Coronado National Forest at Canelo Hill on April 29th and continued through May 4th. The fire burned 38,800 acres with estimated fire fighting costs of 1.2 million dollars. The fire burned one house and several outbuildings.
• Wildfire in California, May 11 to 15, 20021 eventThe Bouquet Canyon Fire burned 4,977 acres of land in the Angeles National Forest. Two structures were lost.
• Wildfire in California, May 13, 2002$250,000 · 1 eventExtremely dry conditions, above normal temperatures, and gusty winds, helped a brush fire, started by an arsonist, to quickly consume 1100 acres before being controlled. Two trucks and one structure were destroyed.
• Wildfire in California, May 13, 20022 injured · $400,000 · 1 eventA wildfire, pushed by strong gusty winds, consumed 3 acres, one house, and two outbuildings. Two injuries occurred, a 38 year old male was overcome by smoke inhalation, and a 13 year old male burned his hands.
• Wildfire in Arizona, May 14, 20021 eventThe Springer Fire burned 840 acres between Clint's Well and the Blue Ridge Ranger Station along Highway 87.
• Wildfire in Arizona, May 15, 20021 eventThe Hart fire fire burned 50 acres near Snow Bowl Road and Hart Prairie Road (FS Road 151) five miles northwest of Flagstaff.
• Wildfire in Arizona, May 15 to 18, 20021 eventThe "Indian Fire" started 5 miles south of Prescott near a campground. Five homes, 2 other structures, and 1365 acres burned before the fire was contained on May 18th. Firefighting costs alone were 2.2 million dollars. The fire was located in a wildland-urban interface.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, May 17 to 31, 20021 eventA wildfire begun by lava near Pulama Pali in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park burned more than 3000 acres through the end of May. Firefighting crews from the mainland, Arizona and California, were brought in to help douse the blaze.
• Wildfire in Colorado, May 20 to 27, 2002$2.2 million · 1 eventLightning sparked a wildfire near Deckers. Extremely dry conditions and very strong winds the following day allowed the fire to consume 3,860 acres before it could be contained. Thirteen structures were destroyed, including 4 homes.
• Wildfire in Arizona, May 21 to 31, 2002$100,000 · 1 eventThe Bullock wildfire started in Bullock Canyon in the Catalina Mountains, part of the Coronado National Forest. The fire started on May 21st and continued through June 10th. It was suspected to be human induced.
• Wildfire in California, May 21, 20021 eventGrass fire reported near the freeway, no burned acreage reported.
• Wildfire in New Mexico, May 21 to 22, 20022 eventsDry lightning started and then gusty winds fanned a series of wildfires that eventually consumed over 100,000 acres.
• Wildfire in Alaska, May 23 to 31, 2002$20,000 · 1 eventA human-caused wildfire near Chena Hot Springs Road burned 4 cabins (estimated $5,000 a piece) and threatened to consume Angel Creek Lodge (at 50 mile Chena Hot Springs Road).
• Wildfire in Hawaii, May 30, 20021 eventA brush fire burned about 20 acres near the Maui Research & Technology Park in Kihei. That the fire was approaching the technology park was a major concern of the firefighters, but they extinguished it before it could get too close.
• Wildfire in California, May 31, 20021 eventA wild fire that began at Arrowhead Springs Resort from a spark from a firefighter training class, was still active as the month of May closed.
• Heat in Missouri, May 31, 20022 deaths · 1 eventTwo women in their mid to late forties were found dead in their home. The medical examiner determined heat to be a major factor in their deaths. Both women were found in homes that had no air conditioning running or windows open.
• Wildfire in Alaska, June 1 to 10, 2002$20,000 · 1 eventEvent continued from May. A human-caused wildfire near Chena Hot Springs Road burned 4 cabins (estimated $5,000 a piece) and threatened to consume Angel Creek Lodge (at 50 mile Chena Hot Springs Road).
• Drought in New Jersey, June 1 to 30, 200220 eventsNew Jersey entered June 2002 with a drought emergency in effect for the entire state with mandatory watering restrictions in place. Water usage statewide was down by as much as 20 percent.
• Drought in Georgia, June 1 to 30, 200216 eventsGenerally, moderate to severe drought conditions continued over much of southeast Georgia. Rainfall for the month was above normal at the Savannah Airport, but most of the rain fell on a few days in scattered thunderstorms.
• Drought in New York, June 1 to 30, 200215 eventsDiligent water conservation practices and a wetter pattern helped ease drought conditions during June, which marked the second consecutive month of above normal precipitation across the region.
• Drought in South Carolina, June 1 to 30, 20029 eventsGenerally, severe drought conditions continued over south coastal South Carolina through the month of June. Rainfall for the month was slightly below normal at the Charleston Airport. However, most of the rain fell in scattered thunderstorms and were confined to a few days.
• Drought in Pennsylvania, June 1 to 30, 20028 eventsEastern Pennsylvania entered June 2002 with improving weather conditions with respect to the drought, but the drought emergency remained in effect for most of Eastern Pennsylvania with mandatory watering restrictions in place.
• Drought in South Carolina, June 1, 20028 eventsThe drought continues across the state. Many areas are 8-10 inches below normal for the year. Crop damage assessment is difficult at this time, however many areas will realize a 25-30 percent reduction in crop yields.
• Drought in Connecticut, June 1 to 15, 20028 eventsDiligent water conservation practices and a wetter pattern helped ease drought conditions during June, which marked the second consecutive month of slightly above normal precipitation across the region.
• Drought in New Jersey, June 1 to 30, 20026 eventsDiligent water conservation practices and a wetter pattern helped ease drought conditions during June, which marked the second consecutive month of slightly above normal precipitation across the region.
• Drought in North Carolina, June 1 to 30, 20026 eventsThe drought continued across the state. The Cape Fear River Basin residents were on mandatory water restrictions. On average, the county's yearly rainfall amounts were about 7-9 inches below normal.
• Drought in Maryland, June 1 to 30, 20025 eventsPrecipitation during June of 2002 once again was drier than normal throughout the Maryland Eastern Shore. The drought emergency remained in effect for Cecil County. The rest of the Eastern Shore remained under a drought warning.
• Drought in Delaware, June 1 to 30, 20024 eventsJune monthly precipitation across Delaware continued the pattern that occurred in May with wetter conditions in the northern part of the state and less and less precipitation farther south.
• Drought in South Dakota, June 1 to 30, 200226 eventsAfter a dry winter and spring, below normal rainfall for June brought severe drought conditions to the area. Much of the rainfall for June was below 50 percent of normal with much of the area receiving 20 to 40 percent of the normal rainfall.
• Drought in Texas, June 1 to 30, 20029 eventsExtreme drought conditions persisted through Deep South Texas during the period.
• Wildfire in Arizona, June 1 to 10, 2002$100,000 · 1 eventThe Bullock wildfire started in Bullock Canyon in the Catalina Mountains, part of the Coronado National Forest. The fire started on May 21st and continued through June 10th. It was suspected to be human induced.
• Drought in Colorado, June 1 to 30, 200221 eventsExtreme to exceptional drought conditions prevailed across western Colorado in June, with a significant negative impact on agricultural interests and the recreation industry.
• Drought in Kansas, June 1 to 30, 200213 eventsModerate to severe drought conditions persisted through the month of June across northwestern Kansas. Although local areas received beneficial moisture, most areas continued with below normal rainfall.
• Drought in Utah, June 1 to 30, 20027 eventsExtreme to exceptional drought conditions prevailed across eastern Utah in June, with a negative impact on agricultural interests and the recreation industry. Most seasonal streams had become dry by early June. The persistent drought increased the potential for major wildfires.
• Drought in Nebraska, June 1 to 30, 20023 eventsModerate to severe drought conditions persisted through the month of June across extreme southwestern Nebraska. Although local areas received beneficial moisture, most areas continued with below normal rainfall.
• Drought in Colorado, June 1 to 30, 20023 eventsModerate to severe drought conditions persisted through the month of June across extreme east central Colorado. Although local areas received beneficial moisture, most areas continued with below normal rainfall.
• Wildfire in California, June 1 to 6, 20023 injured · $300,000 · 1 eventA wild fire that began from a spark that came from a firefighting training class on the Arrowhead Springs Resort, burned for 6 days before it was brought under control Three fire fighters were injured, three storage buildings were destroyed, the main hotel building's suffered…
• Wildfire in California, June 1, 2002$95,000 · 1 eventWind spread flames from a house fire to surrounding brush and consumed a telephone pole.
• Heat in Illinois, June 1, 20021 death · 1 eventTemperatures reached the lower 90s on June 1st and a young child suffered a heat stroke and died.
• Heat in Missouri, June 1 to 4, 200214 injured · 8 eventsAn early season heat wave resulted in 14 heat related injuries, as reported by the State Department of Health and Senior Services. High temperatures across the area were in the upper 80's to lower 90's with average daily temperatures about 10 to 15 degrees above normal.
• Wildfire in California, June 1 to 14, 20021 eventThe Wolf Fire burned 21,278 acres in the Los Padres National Forest. Overall, the fire destroyed six structures.
• Wildfire in New Jersey, June 2 to 6, 2002$700,000 · 1 eventA rapidly moving wildfire aided by strong gusty northwest winds burned about 1,300 acres of forest, destroyed or damaged about 30 permanent structures and caused a major traffic disruption for a Sunday (the 2nd) as the Garden State Parkway was closed for 12 hours.
• Wildfire in Colorado, June 2 to 6, 2002$5.0 million · 1 eventThe Iron Mountain fire started in the early afternoon of June 2nd when a barbeque grill was overturned by high winds. The fire quickly spread, and consumed nearly 4,500 acres of pinon, juniper grass, Ponderosa pine and Gambel oak.
• Wildfire in California, June 2 to 4, 20021 eventThe "Bee" fire burned 430 acres.
• Wildfire in Colorado, June 2 to 10, 2002$50,000 · 1 eventLightning started fires burned around 25,000 acres of land and trees south of Trinidad.
• Wildfire in California, June 2 to 4, 2002$110,000 · 1 eventThe Rocky Fire originated from unknown causes and burned 498 acres. No structures were lost nor were there any fatalities or injuries.
• Wildfire in California, June 3, 20021 eventA fast moving brush fire in Mission Trails Regional park, consumed 65 acres before it was brought under control.
• Wildfire in California, June 3, 20021 eventTraffic backed up on Interstate 15 during the evening commute when a brush fire started on the roadside. About one and a half acres were consumed.
• Wildfire in California, June 4, 20021 injured · 1 eventAn overheated van , started a brush fire that consumed 10 acres and threatened several houses.
• Wildfire in California, June 5 to 12, 20021 eventThe Copper Fire burned 23,407 acres in the Angeles National Forest. The fire, which was ignited by a grinding tool, destroyed 26 structures.
• Wildfire in Colorado, June 9 to 30, 20022 injured · $6.0 million · 1 eventThe largest wildfire in Colorado this century began on the evening of June 8th in Park county and spreads into Teller county early on the morning of the 9th. The wildfire was not fully contained until July 2nd. The Hayman Fire was allegedly started by a U.S.
• Drought in Colorado, June 9 to 30, 20023 eventsHot temperatures, low relative humidities and strong gusty winds allowed the Hayman wildfire, located in the foothills southwest of Denver, to blossom into the largest wildfire in the state's history.
• Wildfire in California, June 9 to 10, 2002$15,000 · 1 eventThe WK Hill/33 Fire originated from unknown causes and burned 400 acres near the intersection of Highway 33 and 198 in West Fresno County. No structures were lost nor were there any fatalities or injuries.
• Wildfire in California, June 15 to 18, 2002$1.9 million · 1 eventThe Borel Fire originated from unknown causes and burned 3430 acres. There were 7 primary residences and 12 out-buildings lost in this fire. There were no reported fatalities or injuries.
• Wildfire in California, June 15 to 20, 20021 eventThe Sudden Fire burned 7,782 acres on land owned by Vandenberg Air Force Base.
• Wildfire in California, June 16 to 22, 20023 injured · $1.0 million · 1 eventNamed the "Blue Cut Fire", it was started by arsonist and rapidly consumed 6864 acres in a six day period due to hot dry windy conditions.
• Wildfire in California, June 17, 20025 injured · $300,000 · 1 eventGusty afternoon winds and 120 degree temperatures helped fuel a brush fire that consumed a house, several vehicles, and numerous trees. Four fire fighters were treated for heat exhaustion, another suffered a minor injury.
• Wildfire in California, June 17, 2002$150,000 · 1 eventA vacant cabin and several acres of brush were consumed.
• Wildfire in California, June 17 to 18, 20021 eventSixty acres were consumed in a slow moving fire in the Tijuana River Valley.
• Wildfire in California, June 18 to 20, 20022 injured · 1 eventA brush fire consumed 565 acres of uninhabited land on the Morongo Indian Reservation before being fully contained. Two fire fighters suffered minor injuries. In all, 575 personnel were used to control the blaze.
• Wildfire in California, June 18, 20021 eventFifteen acres burned on the Pechanga Indian Reservation. No structures were burned.
• Wildfire in California, June 18, 20021 eventTwo acres were burned on the Barona Indian Reservation. No injuries occurred and no structures were burned.
• Wildfire in California, June 18, 20021 eventFour acres were consumed in a brush fire before firefighters were able to control it.
• Wildfire in California, June 19 to 22, 20025 injured · $300,000 · 1 eventNamed the "Troy" fire, it began just east of Mt. Laguna in the Cuyapaipe Indian Reservation and burned to the northeast into the Anza-Borrego Desert. Three unoccupied cabins and 1188 acres burned. The cost to fight the fire was $1.5 million.
• Wildfire in Colorado, June 19 to 30, 2002$11 million · 1 eventThe Million Fire started in a rolled up section of illegally dumped sod. It is not known for sure whether the sod spontaneously combusted or was set on fire by a human. The fire spread rapidly with dry conditions and high winds.
• Heat in Wisconsin, June 20, 20021 death · 5 eventsA brief, one day heat wave affected parts of southeast Wisconsin, resulting in the death of a 38-year-old male in the city of Milwaukee. After several days with maximum temperatrures in the 50s, 60's and 70's, the heat on June 20th was sudden enough to affect humans.
• Heat in Illinois, June 21 to 25, 20027 deaths · 1 eventSeven residents of Cook county died of heat related illinesses brought on by a prolonged period of hot weather. High temperatures at Chicago Ohare Airport ranged from the upper 80s to lower 90s with heat indices in the mid to upper 90s between June 21st and June 25th.
• Heat in Wisconsin, June 22 to 25, 20021 death · 9 eventsA long-duration, early-season. heat wave affected Milwaukee and Racine counties, resulting in a directly-related death, and an indirectly-related death. This heat wave didn't meet official heat-wave criteria, but the duration and timing was sufficient to adversely affect humans.
• Heat in Pennsylvania, June 24 to 27, 20024 deaths · 5 eventsThe first prolonged period of heat and humidity of the season claimed the life of four people in Southeast Pennsylvania. A 9-year-old girl suffering from cerebral palsy and asthma died of heat stroke while at Sesame Place in Langhorne (Bucks County).
• Heat in New Jersey, June 24 to 27, 200213 eventsThe first prolonged period of heat and humidity of the season affected most of central and southern New Jersey for most of the work week of June 24th. Even the shore reached into the 90s on Monday the 24th as winds were blowing offshore.
• Heat in Maryland, June 24 to 27, 20025 eventsThe first prolonged period of heat and humidity of the season affected the Maryland Eastern Shore for most of the work week of June 24th. A strong cold frontal passage during the evening of the 27th ended the hot spell.
• Heat in Delaware, June 24 to 27, 20023 eventsThe first prolonged period of heat and humidity of the season affected Delaware for most of the work week of June 24th. A strong cold frontal passage during the evening of the 27th ended the hot spell.
• Wildfire in California, June 24, 20021 eventAnother brush fire along Interstate 15 on the south side of the Cajon Pass, rapidly burned into the area previously consumed by the Blue Cut fire, which ended two days earlier. Dense smoke again filled the Cajon Pass and drifted over the Apple Valley.
• Wildfire in California, June 24 to 25, 20021 eventNamed the "Manzanita" Fire, it began along Interstate 8 and burned eastward into the Manzanita Indian Reservation.The freeway was closed for several hours due to dense smoke. Evacuations were ordered for thirty residences. As of 6 a.m.
• Wildfire in California, June 24, 2002$80,000 · 1 eventThe fire began from a malfunction of a power line running through a steep canyon. About 150 firefighters, responding from all the surrounding communities, and assisted by air tankers and helicopters, were able to contain the blaze to 10 acres.
• Wildfire in California, June 24 to 25, 20021 eventA 10 acre brush fire threatened the town Crestline, forcing the closures of Highways 18 and 138. Dense Smoke from the fire drifted over Hesperia, Apple Valley, and Victorville and lowered the visibility to 1/2 mile.
• Heat in Maryland, June 25 to 26, 20026 deaths · 9 eventsVery warm and moist air was ushered into the region by south winds during the last week of June. On the 25th and 26th, temperatures in the mid 90s combined with dew points near 70 to create heat index values between 100 and 110 degrees.
• Heat in Missouri, June 25, 20021 death · 1 eventA 79 year old woman was found dead in her home from heat related causes. The home had an air conditioner and a fan but neither was turned on. The high temperature the previous days had been in the lower 90s.
• Wildfire in California, June 25, 20021 eventBrush fire in center divide of Interstate 10, dense smoke affecting traffic.
• Wildfire in California, June 25, 20021 eventBrush fire starting near intersection of Ironwood Avenue and Redlands Boulevard.
• Wildfire in California, June 26 to 29, 20021 injured · $2.0 million · 1 eventNamed the Louisiana fire, it began from a burning car in the Cajon Pass near Pitman Canyon. Fanned by 20 mph winds, it grew to more than 200 acres in two hours and destroyed three residences and three outbuildings. Before the first day was over, 1300 acres had burned.
• Wildfire in California, June 26 to 27, 20021 eventThis fire flared up within the boundary of the 2500 acre Arrowhead Fire that occurred during the early part of June 2002. It occurred on unburned acreage and remained fully contained within the established fire corridor.
• Wildfire in California, June 28, 20021 injured · 1 eventA brush fire burned 9 acres in rugged terrain near a developed neighborhood, before being brought under control.
• Heat in Michigan, June 28, 20022 deaths · 1 eventA 10 month old girl and her 3-year old brother died after being left along in a closed car in Southfield. Temperatures that day were in the 90s while the children were left in the car. They were in the car approximately 3 hours and died from the extreme heat.
• Heat in Missouri, June 29, 20021 death · 1 eventA 73 year old woman died of hyperthermia in her home in Robertson. The home had no air conditioning, there were no fans and all windows were closed. The woman's pet dog was also found dead.
• Heat in Missouri, June 29, 20021 death · 1 eventA 73 year old woman was found dead in her home. The coroner listed heat as a contributing cause of death.
• Heat in Wisconsin, June 30, 200220 eventsThe last day of June 30, 2002, was the first of four consecutive days in south-central and southeast Wisconsin with maximum temperatures in the lower to mid 90s and overnight lows in the upper 60s to mid 70s, both about 10 to 15 degrees above normal.
• Wildfire in California, June 30, 20021 eventA brush fire broke out along Wildcat Canyon and Old Barona roads, forcing their closure and the evacuation of most of the customers of the Barona Casino.
• Wildfire in California, June 30, 2002$20,000 · 1 eventA vehicle fire was spread by winds into a 10 acre brush fire.
• Wildfire in California, June 30, 20021 eventA brush fire in dense vegetation along the Santa Ana River Bottom burned 35 acres before being brought under control.
• Drought in New Jersey, July 1 to 31, 200220 eventsThe unseasonably warm and dry month of July intensified drought conditions across the state. In spite of mandatory restrictions, water usage increased as the month wore on. Water usage statewide was down by as much as 20 percent in May and June.
• Drought in Georgia, July 1 to 31, 200216 eventsModerate to severe drought conditions continued over southeast Georgia through the month of July. Rainfall for the month was 2.89 inches below normal for the month.
• Drought in New York, July 1 to 31, 200215 eventsAfter an encouraging 4 month period of increased rainfall and improved drought conditions, the region experienced a disappointing setback during July. Rainfall during July was well below normal.
• Drought in South Carolina, July 1 to 31, 20029 eventsSevere drought conditions continued through the month of July over south coastal South Carolina. Rainfall for the month was 3.65 inches below normal for the month.
• Drought in Pennsylvania, July 1 to 31, 20028 eventsThe unseasonably warm and dry weather across Eastern Pennsylvania during the month of July intensified drought conditions. A drought emergency remained in effect for most of Eastern Pennsylvania with mandatory watering restrictions in place.
• Drought in New Jersey, July 1 to 31, 20026 eventsAfter an encouraging 4 month period of increasing rainfall and improving drought conditions, the region experienced a disappointing setback during July. Rainfall during the month was well below normal.
• Drought in Maryland, July 1 to 31, 20025 eventsThe combination of unseasonably warm weather and below normal precipitation intensified the drought across the Maryland Eastern Shore in July. The drought emergency remained in effect for Cecil County. The rest of the Eastern Shore remained under a drought warning.
• Drought in Delaware, July 1, 20024 eventsThe combination of an unseasonably warm July and below normal monthly precipitation intensified the drought across Delaware. On a county weighted average July monthly precipitation was 2.3 inches in Sussex County, 3.3 inches in Kent County and 1.8 inches in New Castle County.
• Drought in Texas, July 1 to 31, 20028 eventsSevere drought conditions persisted across Deep South Texas during the period.
• Heat and Drought in Kansas, July 1 to 31, 2002$4,000 · 24 eventsJuly 2002 was one of the hotter and drier months on record for northeast Kansas. Monthly temperatures averaged well above normal over the whole area with many days of high temperatures above 95 degrees and quite a few over 100 degrees.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 1 to 17, 2002$8.0 million · 1 eventThe Missionary Ridge fire began in early June (see the June 2002 Storm Data publication) and was contained on July 17th . The fire destroyed approximately 50 homes and 22 other structures. The fire consumed over 70,000 acres.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 1 to 10, 2002$3.5 million · 1 eventThe Coal Seam fire which began in early June (see the June 2002 Storm Data publication) was contained on July 10th. The fire destroyed 29 residences and 14 other buildings. Nearly 3000 people were evacuated from that area.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 1 to 17, 2002$2.5 million · 1 eventThe Valley Fire was ignited by lightning in the Falls Creek area adjacent to the Animas Valley in late June (see June 2002 Storm Data publication). 22 homes in the Falls Creek subdivision were destroyed.
• Drought in Colorado, July 1 to 31, 200224 eventsA long term drought, which began to affect Colorado in earnest in May, continued through July. Conditions were described as severe to extreme during May, June, and through July. Snow pack had essentially melted by early May.
• Drought in New Mexico, July 1 to 31, 200222 eventsDry weather dominated for many areas throughout the month. The long awaited summer thunderstorm season began about a week late and with early rainfall amounts that were light and spotty.
• Drought in Colorado, July 1 to 31, 200221 eventsExtreme to exceptional drought conditions continued throughout western Colorado during the month of July. Water restrictions became common across much of the area. The persistent drought continued a heightened risk for wildfires and caused problems for agricultural interests.
• Drought in Kansas, July 1 to 31, 200213 eventsDrought conditions worsened from extreme to exceptional during the month of July across northwest Kansas. Hot temperatures and much below normal rainfall during the month continued to stress crops and livestock in the area.
• Drought in Utah, July 1 to 31, 20027 eventsExtreme to exceptional drought conditions continued throughout the eastern quarter of Utah during the month of July. The persistent drought continued to heighten the risk of wildfires and caused problems for agricultural interests.
• Drought in Colorado, July 1 to 31, 20023 eventsDrought conditions worsened from extreme to exceptional during the month of July across east-central Colorado. Hot temperatures and much below normal rainfall during the month continued to stress crops and livestock in the area.
• Drought in Nebraska, July 1 to 31, 20023 eventsDrought conditions worsened from extreme to exceptional during the month of July across extreme southwest Nebraska. Hot temperatures and much below normal rainfall during the month continued to stress crops and livestock in the area.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 1 to 2, 20022 injured · $6.0 million · 1 eventThe Hayman Fire, largest in Colorado this century, was fully contained on July 2nd.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 1 to 4, 2002$11 million · 1 eventContinued from the previous month. The Million Fire was contained on Independence Day, after consuming 9300 acres.
• Heat in Wisconsin, July 1 to 3, 200219 eventsA heat wave, which started on June 30, 2002, continued through the first three days of July, 2002, across south-central and southeast Wisconsin.
• Heat in Pennsylvania, July 1 to 4, 200215 deaths · 8 eventsJuly started with unseasonably hot and humid weather across Eastern Pennsylvania. The hottest and most humid weather occurred on Independence Day before a cold front quietly moved through the region during the night of the 4th.
• Heat in Illinois, July 1 to 4, 200212 deaths · 1 eventJuly 2002 began well above normal with high temperatures in the lower to middle 90s across the Chicago area with overnight low temperatures mainly in the 70s. The prolonged heat and humidity which began in late June 2002, caused several heat related fatalities in Cook county.
• Heat in Maryland, July 1 to 4, 20021 death · 5 eventsJuly started with unseasonably hot and humid weather across the Maryland Eastern Shore. The hottest and most humid weather occurred on Independence Day before a cold front quietly moved through the region during the night of the 4th.
• Heat in New Jersey, July 1 to 4, 200220 eventsJuly started with unseasonably hot and humid weather across New Jersey. The hottest and most humid weather occurred on Independence Day before a cold front quietly moved through the region during the night of the 4th.
• Heat in Delaware, July 1 to 4, 20024 eventsJuly started with unseasonably hot and humid weather across Delaware. The hottest and most humid weather occurred on Independence Day before a cold front quietly moved through the region during the night of the 4th.
• Heat in Michigan, July 1 to 4, 200225 injured · 3 eventsLocal television media reported that an estimated 25 people across metro Detroit were treated for heat stroke during the beginning of the month as afternoon high temperatures soared into the 90s, while heat indices broke 100 degrees.
• Wildfire in Utah, July 1 to 8, 2002$50,000 · 1 eventThis human caused fire became known as the Mustang Fire. Three outbuildings and one other structure were destroyed, and highway 191 was temporarily closed. The Flaming Gorge Dam and Power Plant were threatened by the fire. The fire consumed 20,038 acres.
• Heat in Missouri, July 1, 20021 death · 1 eventA 73 year old woman died in her home in Velda Village of hyperthermia. The home had an air conditioner but it did not work. The high temperature that day and the previous day was 94.
• Heat in Maryland, July 2 to 4, 200221 deaths · 14 eventsHigh pressure remained stationary off the Delmarva coastline during the 1st week of July. This resulted in a prolonged period of hot and humid weather across the Mid Atlantic region.
• Heat in Virginia, July 2 to 4, 200222 eventsHigh pressure remained stationary off the Delmarva coastline during the 1st week of July. This resulted in a prolonged period of hot and humid weather across the Mid Atlantic region.
• Heat in West Virginia, July 2 to 4, 20027 eventsHigh pressure remained stationary off the Delmarva coastline during the 1st week of July. This resulted in a prolonged period of hot and humid weather across the Mid Atlantic region.
• Heat in Connecticut, July 2 to 4, 20021 death · 6 eventsTemperatures rose into the mid and upper 90s across interior Southern Connecticut and into the lower and mid 90s along the shores of Long Island Sound.
• Heat in New York, July 2 to 4, 200215 eventsTemperatures rose into the mid and upper 90s across the region. Overnight low temperatures remained in the lower 80s on the third and fourth in highly urbanized areas throughout the New York City Metropolitan Area. Overall, temperatures averaged 10 to 15 degrees above normal.
• Heat in New Jersey, July 2 to 4, 20026 eventsTemperatures rose into the upper 90s in the highly urbanized areas of Northeast Union, Southeast Essex, and Eastern Hudson Counties that included the corridor from Elizabeth City north to Newark and Jersey City. They rose mainly into the mid 90s elsewhere.
• Heat in Missouri, July 2, 20021 death · 1 eventAn 85 year old man died in his home in Maryland Heights of hyperthermia. The home had no air conditioner, no fans and the windows were all shut.
• Wildfire in New York, July 5 to 7, 200224 eventsSmoke, from many forest fires across the Nemiscau region of northern Quebec, became trapped under a subsidence inversion, and was transported south across eastern New York from the evening hours of July 5, to the late evening of July 7.
• Wildfire in Vermont, July 5 to 7, 20022 eventsSmoke, from many forest fires across the Nemiscau region of northern Quebec, became trapped under a subsidence inversion, and was transported south across southern Vermont from the evening hours of July 5, to the late evening of July 7.
• Wildfire in New Jersey, July 6 to 7, 200220 eventsA northerly flow of air through the lower half of the atmosphere pushed smoke from forest fires in northern Quebec across New Jersey. The smoke reduced visibilities and could be smelled from the afternoon of the 6th into the afternoon of the 7th.
• Wildfire in Pennsylvania, July 6 to 7, 200210 eventsA northerly flow of air through the lower half of the atmosphere pushed smoke from forest fires in northern Quebec across Eastern Pennsylvania. The smoke reduced visibilities and could be smelled from the afternoon of the 6th into the afternoon of the 7th.
• Wildfire in Maryland, July 6 to 7, 20025 eventsA northerly flow of air through the lower half of the atmosphere pushed smoke from forest fires in northern Quebec across the Maryland Eastern Shore. The smoke reduced visibilities and could be smelled from the afternoon of the 6th into the afternoon of the 7th.
• Wildfire in Delaware, July 6 to 7, 20024 eventsA northerly flow of air through the lower half of the atmosphere pushed smoke from forest fires in northern Quebec across Delaware. The smoke reduced visibilities and could be smelled from the afternoon of the 6th into the afternoon of the 7th.
• Wildfire in California, July 6, 2002$25,000 · 1 eventA 5 acre brush fire burned part of the roof of a large grocery store.
• Heat in Missouri, July 6 to 9, 20025 deaths · 1 event
• Heat in Illinois, July 7 to 8, 20024 deaths · 1 eventAfter a brief cool down on July 5th and 6th, high temperatures reached the upper 80s and lower 90s on July 7th and 8th with low temperatures in the middle to upper 60s. This short hot spell was responsible for 4 fatalities in Cook county.
• Heat in Pennsylvania, July 8 to 9, 20021 death · 1 eventTwo days of high temperatures in the 90s claimed the life of a 78-year-old man in Philadelphia. The high temperature on the 9th reached 96 degrees at the Franklin Institute within Philadelphia and 95 degrees at the Philadelphia International Airport.
• Heat in Missouri, July 8 to 9, 20021 death · 26 injured · 29 eventsHigh temperatures climbed into the middle to upper 90's with Heat Indices from 105 to 110 degrees. There was one death in St. Louis County in which heat was listed as a contributing cause.
• Heat in Wisconsin, July 8, 200220 eventsA single-day heat wave affected a few counties in south-central and southeast Wisconsin, resulting in about a dozen people being treated for the affects of heat at local hospitals. Maximum temperatures were in the lower to mid 90s, and morning lows were in the lower 70s.
• Heat in Illinois, July 8 to 9, 200217 eventsHigh temperatures climbed into the middle to upper 90's with the Heat Indices from 105 to 110 degrees.
• Heat in California, July 8 to 11, 20029 injured · 1 eventThe third day of temperatures over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, led to 9 people being admitted to the hospital for heat exhaustion. A smog alert was also in effect due to the hot stagnant air over the area.
• Heat in Louisiana, July 8, 20021 death · 1 eventConstruction worker was found beside his vehicle at a construction site in Bossier Parish around 1330 CST and pronounced dead at 1430 CST. Heat stress was assumed as the cause of death.
• Wildfire in Oregon, July 9 to 26, 2002$5.5 million · 1 eventThe Eyerly Fire, sparked by lightning, consumed 23,573 acres and destroyed several structures, including 18 homes, 13 out buildings, three travel trailers, and two cars. In addition, one home and five buildings were damaged.
• Heat in California, July 9 to 15, 20022 deaths · 4 eventsStrong high pressure over the Western United States coupled with subtropical moisture flowing northwestward into Central California produced near-record high temperatures, record high minimum temperatures, and Heat Index readings above 105F from the 9th through the 15th of the…
• Heat in Oregon, July 10 to 14, 200210 eventsA record breaking heat wave shattered many daily record high temperatures across the state, with a few locations breaking all-time records.
• Heat in Washington, July 10 to 14, 20028 eventsA record breaking heat wave shattered many daily record high temperatures across the state. Some of the warmest locations include Prosser with 111 degrees, Walla Walla with 110 degrees, and Sunnyside with 109 degrees.
• Heat in Idaho, July 10 to 15, 20029 eventsA heat wave encompassed all of southeastern Idaho from July 10th through the 15th. Several records were set.
• Heat in California, July 10 to 12, 20023 eventsRecord setting heat occurred on three consecutive days across the interior of northwest California. Ukiah set a record on the 10th of 110 degrees. A few other locations and peak temperatures: Weaverville 115, Laytonville 111, and Big Bar 114.
• Wildfire in California, July 10, 20022 injured · 1 eventSeventy acres of brush was burned in the Santa Ana River bed. Two firefighters were hospitalized with heat exhaustion.
• Heat in Texas, July 11, 20021 death · 1 eventMan died from heat stroke while working on his vehicle outside his home. He was found by his neighbor.
• Heat in Montana, July 14, 20026 eventsAn upper level ridge brought extreme heat to northeast Montana in mid July. The hottest day in the heatwave was July 14.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 14 to 20, 2002$30,000 · 1 eventThis lightning caused wildfire was named the East Marble fire. The fire consumed 366 acres of forest and destroyed one structure. The cost of fighting the fire was 261 thousand dollars.
• Heat in Illinois, July 15 to 22, 200211 deaths · 1 eventAn extended period of hot weather began on July 15th and continued through July 22nd. High temperatures ranged mainly from the upper 80s to middle 90s. July 21st was the hottest day when high temperatures reached the middle to upper 90s.
• Heat in Pennsylvania, July 15 to 19, 20022 deaths · 8 eventsAnother work week of hot weather affected southeastern Pennsylvania from the 15th through the 19th. High temperatures reached into the 90s in most areas each day. The highest temperatures mainly occurred on the 17th.
• Heat in New Jersey, July 15 to 19, 200216 eventsAnother work week of hot weather affected the southern half of New Jersey from the 15th through the 19th. High temperatures reached into the 90s in most areas each day. The highest temperatures mainly occurred on the 17th.
• Heat in Maryland, July 15 to 19, 20025 eventsAnother work week of hot weather affected the Maryland Eastern Shore from the 15th through the 19th. High temperatures reached into the 90s each day. The highest temperatures mainly occurred on the 17th.
• Heat in Delaware, July 15 to 19, 20024 eventsAnother work week of hot weather affected Delaware from the 15th through the 19th. High temperatures reached into the 90s in most areas each day. The highest temperatures mainly occurred on the 17th.
• Heat in California, July 15, 20021 death · 1 injured · 1 eventTemperatures of 110 degrees Fahrenheit, inside a condominium in the Coachella Valley, led to the death of one woman and heat exhaustion of another.
• Heat in California, July 16 to 25, 20021 death · 1 eventDuring this period, daytime maximum temperatures over the desert areas ranged between 104 and 109 degrees Fahrenheit with early morning minimum temperatures ranging between 81 and 92 degrees.
• Wildfire in California, July 17, 20021 injured · 1 eventA ten acre brush fire near Interstate 15, jumped across the freeway, tying up traffic for most of the afternoon. One firefighter was treated for heat exhaustion.
• Heat in Missouri, July 17, 20021 death · 1 eventThe St. Louis City Coroner reported the death of a 45 year old man from heat related causes.
• Heat in Missouri, July 20 to 22, 200247 injured · 29 eventsHigh temperatures climbed into the middle to upper 90's with the Heat Indices from 105 to near 115 degrees. St. Louis hit 100 degrees on July 22.
• Heat in Illinois, July 20 to 22, 200217 eventsHigh temperatures climbed to the middle to upper 90's with the Heat Indices from 105 to near 115 degrees. St. Louis hit 100 on July 22.
• Heat in Maryland, July 20, 20021 death · 1 eventHigh temperatures reached the lower 90s. Heat related death of a man, found inside residence where the temperature was 100 degrees.
• Heat in Wisconsin, July 21, 200217 eventsExcessive heat affected most of south-central and southeast Wisconsin on July 21st. This turned out to be the hottest day of the summer of 2002 for this area. Interestingly, no heat-related deaths were reported up to the initial time of the publication of this report.
• Wildfire in California, July 21 to 24, 2002$3.8 million · 1 eventThe Deer Fire was man-caused, was pushed by the typically strong up-valley southwest wind through the Kern River Canyon, and burned 1800 acres. The cost to contain the fire was $1.3M.
• Wildfire in California, July 21 to 31, 2002$14 million · 1 eventThe McNally Fire was started by an illegal campfire. It charred 90,500 acres through July 31st and ultimately charred 150,696 acres. The fire was located in Tulare County near the town of Johnsondale and is the largest fire in Sequoia Park history.
• Heat in Maryland, July 22 to 23, 20023 deaths · 12 eventsAnother round of hot and humid weather occurred across Central and Southern Maryland on July 22nd and 23rd. Heat indexes rose to between 98 and 105 degrees both days. Three people died from heat related illnesses during this time.
• Heat in Virginia, July 22 to 23, 200214 eventsAnother round of hot and humid weather occurred across Northern and Central Virginia on July 22nd and 23rd. Heat indexes rose to between 98 and 105 degrees both days.
• Wildfire in California, July 22, 2002$55,000 · 1 eventStrong winds and extremely dry conditions fanned a house fire. As a result five outbuildings were destroyed.
• Heat in California, July 23, 20021 death · 1 eventA young girl, left inside a van, died from heat stroke. Outside air tempertures reached 102 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Heat in Missouri, July 25, 20021 death · 1 eventA 15 year old male was riding his bike during the afternoon. He collapsed and die of heat stroke in Nevada.
• Heat and Damaging Wind in Wisconsin, July 26, 2002$5,000 · 56 kt wind · 2 eventsAn isolated severe thunderstorm pulsed up over Racine County, resulting in wind damage to some corn crop near Raymond, as well as some roof shingle damage to a few homes. In Milwaukee County, a 45-year-old male died from heat-related, secondary causes (indirectly-related).
• Heat in Illinois, July 26 to 28, 20022 deaths · 1 eventHigh temperatures between July 26th and July 28th only reached the upper 80s to near 90, but overnight low temperatures remained in the lower to middle 70s, adding to the prolonged affect of heat. Two fatalities were reported in Cook county.
• Heat in Missouri, July 26 to 31, 2002185 injured · 22 eventsHigh temperatures across Central, Eastern and Southeast Missouri rose to the middle to upper 90's with Heat Indices from 105 to near 115 degrees. There was a one day break in the heat as a weak cold front dropped high temperatures into the upper 80's on July29.
• Heat in Illinois, July 26 to 31, 200214 eventsHigh temperatures climbed into the middle to upper 90's with the Heat Indices from 105 to near 115 degrees. There was a one day break in the heat as a weak cold front dropped temperatures back into the upper 80's on July 29.
• Wildfire in Oregon, July 26 to 29, 20027 eventsA Red Flag Warning was issued for all or part of the above counties at the above times. Fire weather zones 617 through 625 were included in the original warning. The warning for zones 624/625 was for strong north winds and poor overnight RH recoveries.
• Heat in Pennsylvania, July 28 to 30, 20023 deaths · 8 eventsAnother hot and very humid air mass moved into Eastern Pennsylvania on the 28th. In most areas this hot spell produced some of the highest heat indices of the summer as they reached near 105F and between 105F and 110F in Philadelphia during the afternoon of the 29th.
• Heat in Maryland, July 28 to 30, 20021 death · 5 eventsAnother hot and very humid air mass moved into the Maryland Eastern Shore on the 28th. In most areas this hot spell produced some of the highest heat indices of the summer as they reached between 105F and 110F during the afternoon of the 29th.
• Heat in New Jersey, July 28 to 30, 200219 eventsAnother hot and very humid air mass moved into New Jersey on the 28th. In most areas this hot spell produced some of the highest heat indices of the summer as they reached around 105F during the afternoon of the 29th.
• Heat in Delaware, July 28 to 30, 20024 eventsAnother hot and very humid air mass moved into Delaware on the 28th. In most areas this hot spell produced some of the highest heat indices of the summer as they reached between 105F and 110F during the afternoon of the 29th.
• Heat in Maryland, July 28 to 29, 20023 deaths · 14 eventsA large area of high pressure sat off the Mid-Atlantic coast during the last week of July. This caused a warm and moist south wind to blow into the region for several days, resulting in another heat wave.
• Heat in Virginia, July 28 to 29, 200222 eventsA large area of high pressure sat off the Mid-Atlantic coast during the last week of July. This caused a warm and moist south wind to blow into the region for several days, resulting in another heat wave.
• Heat in West Virginia, July 28 to 29, 20027 eventsA large area of high pressure sat off the Mid-Atlantic coast during the last week of July. This caused a warm and moist south wind to blow into the region for several days, resulting in another heat wave.
• Heat in New York, July 29 to 31, 200215 eventsAn eight day "heat wave" began on July 29th and extended through August 5th across the region. High temperatures rose into the mid and upper 90s from July 29th through the 31st.
• Heat in New Jersey, July 29 to 31, 20026 eventsAn eight day "heat wave" began on July 29th and extended through August 5th across the region. High temperatures rose into the mid and upper 90s from July 29th through the 31st.
• Wildfire in California, July 29 to 31, 2002$2.0 million · 1 eventNamed the "Pines Fire", it began when a helicopter nipped a power line. The resulting sparks started the fire. As July closed, the fire was only 15% contained, had burned 21 structures and 17,600 acres.
• Heat in Arkansas, July 30, 20021 death · 1 injured · 1 eventAn 83 year old woman was found deceased in her home, in Pine Bluff, as a result of heat-related stress. The woman's 81 year old sister was also found unconscious in the home and was taken to the hospital for treatment.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 31, 2002$1.0 million · 1 eventA construction crew sawing through rebar ignited a forest fire which became known as the Panorama Fire. The rate of fire spread increased to nearly 1000 acres per hour due to moderate winds. 2400 acres of trees were consumed by the end of the day.
• Heat in Pennsylvania, August 1 to 5, 20029 deaths · 10 eventsThe excessive heat that began on July 28th continued through August 5th. The combination of high temperatures in the 90s and high dew points produced heat indices of over 100 each day through the 5th. A cold frontal passage late in the day on the 5th ended the excessive heat.
• Heat in New Jersey, August 1 to 5, 20021 death · 17 eventsThe excessive heat that began on July 28th continued through August 5th. The combination of high temperatures in the 90s and high dew points produced heat indices of over 100 each day through the 5th. A cold frontal passage late in the day on the 5th ended the excessive heat.
• Drought in Georgia, August 1 to 31, 200297 eventsVery dry conditions persisted across much of north and central Georgia during the month. Rainfall totals of less than one inch were observed at several reporting stations. Athens received only 0.14 inch of rain during the month making it the 2nd driest August on record.
• Drought in North Carolina, August 1 to 31, 200229 eventsThe water supply situation reached crisis levels in some communities, as the effects of the long term drought continued to plague western North Carolina. Particularly hard hit were several Piedmont communities along the Interstate 77 corridor.
• Drought in New Jersey, August 1 to 31, 200221 eventsThe unseasonably warm and dry month of August intensified drought conditions across the state. In fact very little precipitation fell across the state between August 2nd and the 24th.
• Drought in Georgia, August 1 to 31, 200216 eventsSoutheast Georgia remained in a drought. Some areas had above rainfall for the month which temporarily improved conditions.
• Drought in South Carolina, August 1 to 31, 200215 eventsThe effects of the long term drought continued to take their toll on water supplies in Upstate communities in August. Many creeks and small streams reached their lowest levels in memory, while water levels on area lakes were as much as 10 feet below full pond.
• Drought in New York, August 1 to 31, 200215 eventsThe Brookhaven Hydrologic Service Area (HSA) received 4.09 inches of rain during August, which was 95 percent of normal or just 0.19 inches below normal. Because most rainfall was produced by convection, amounts were "variable" across the region.
• Drought in South Carolina, August 1 to 31, 20029 eventsThe state of South Carolina remained in drought conditions. However, many areas received well above normal rainfall during the last half of the month which helped to improve conditions. The Charleston Airport measured over 11 inches of rain during the month.
• Drought in Pennsylvania, August 1 to 31, 20028 eventsThe unseasonably warm and dry weather across Eastern Pennsylvania during the month of August intensified drought conditions. A drought emergency remained in effect for most of Eastern Pennsylvania with mandatory watering restrictions in place.
• Drought in New Jersey, August 1 to 31, 20026 eventsThe Brookhaven Hydrologic Service Area (HSA) received 4.09 inches of rain during August, which was 95 percent of normal or just 0.19 inches below normal.
• Drought in Georgia, August 1 to 31, 20026 eventsThe effects of the long term drought continued to take their toll on water supplies in northeast Georgia communities in August. Many creeks and small streams reached their lowest levels in memory, while water levels on area lakes were as much as 10 feet below full pond.
• Drought in Maryland, August 1 to 31, 20025 eventsThe combination of unseasonably warm weather and below normal precipitation continued to intensify the drought across the Maryland Eastern Shore in August. Very little precipitation fell during the first three weeks of the month.
• Heat in Maryland, August 1 to 5, 20025 eventsThe excessive heat that began on July 28th continued through August 5th. The combination of high temperatures in the 90s and high dewpoints produced heat indices of over 100 each day through the 5th. A cold frontal passage late in the day on the 5th ended the excessive heat.
• Drought in Delaware, August 1 to 31, 20024 eventsThe combination of unseasonably warm weather entering August and below normal monthly precipitation intensified the drought across Delaware.
• Heat in Delaware, August 1 to 5, 20024 eventsThe excessive heat that began on July 28th continued through August 5th. The combination of high temperatures in the 90s and high dew points produced heat indices of over 100 each day through the 5th. A cold frontal passage late in the day on the 5th ended the excessive heat.
• Drought in Wisconsin, August 1 to 11, 2002$4.4 million · 20 eventsThis drought period in August, 2002, (rated as D0 to D1 - abnormally dry to a mild drought), over south-central and southeast Wisconsin, was a continuation from a drought that began on July 1, 2002.
• Drought in Texas, August 1 to 31, 20023 eventsSevere drought conditions persisted over portions of Deep South Texas during the period.
• Drought in Kentucky, August 1 to 31, 200222 eventsModerate drought conditions developed over western Kentucky during August as a result of persistent dryness that began in June. At Paducah, total rainfall during the period from June 1 to August 31 was only 4.71 inches, well below the normal of 11.95 inches.
• Drought in Illinois, August 1 to 31, 200219 eventsModerate drought conditions developed over southern Illinois during August as a result of persistent dryness that began in June. At Carbondale, no measurable rainfall was reported during the entire month of July, and August rainfall was just over half an inch.
• Drought in Missouri, August 1 to 31, 200211 eventsModerate drought conditions developed over southeast Missouri during early August as a result of persistent dryness that began in June. At Cape Girardeau, total rainfall from July 1 until August 13 was just over three-quarters of an inch.
• Drought in Indiana, August 1 to 31, 20026 eventsModerate drought conditions developed over southwest Indiana during August as a result of persistent dryness that began in June. At Boonville, which is about 15 miles east of Evansville, total rainfall during the month of August was 0.08 inches.
• Wildfire in Colorado, August 1 to 2, 2002$1.2 million · 1 eventThe Panorama fire was ignited the end of July by a construction crew sawing through rebar. Four homes and two other structures were destroyed in the Spring Creek Reservoir area. More than 300 people were evacuated from over 200 homes in five subdivisions.
• Wildfire in Colorado, August 1 to 31, 2002$500,000 · 1 eventThe Big Fish fire began in mid July and continued to burn through the month of August. On the 16th of August the fire destroyed several structures around Trappers Lake. Structures that were destroyed included the historic Trappers Lake Lodge, a barn, and six cabins.
• Wildfire in Colorado, August 1 to 4, 2002$300,000 · 1 eventThe Long Mesa fire began the end of July and was caused by lightning. The fire was contained on the 4th of August after it consumed 2,601 acres of mixed trees and shrubs in Mesa Verde National Park. A total of seven structures were destroyed, including two houses.
• Drought in New Mexico, August 1 to 31, 200222 eventsA weak summer thunderstorm season continued across north and central New Mexico during the month.
• Drought in Colorado, August 1 to 31, 200221 eventsExtreme to exceptional drought conditions continued throughout western Colorado during the month of August. Surges of monsoon moisture resulted in occasional rainfall which brought minor relief to portions of Colorado. Water restrictions were in place across much of the area.
• Drought in Utah, August 1 to 31, 20027 eventsExtreme to exceptional drought conditions continued throughout the eastern quarter of Utah during the month of August. Surges of monsoon moisture resulted in occasional rainfall which brought minor relief to extreme southeast Utah.
• Wildfire in Colorado, August 1 to 16, 20021 eventThe Hinman fire began in mid July due to lightning. The fire occurred in the Routt National Forest and consumed 1,946 acres of mixed timber through the 16th of August. After the 16th of the month, the fire was included as part of the Mount Zirkel Complex.
• Wildfire in California, August 1 to 13, 200238 injured · $10 million · 1 eventThe Pines Fire began on July 29 when a helicopter clipped a power line and the resulting sparks started a brush fire. The fire grew rapidly in the extremely hot and dry conditions and exhibited extreme fire behavior during the first part of August.
• Wildfire in California, August 1 to 29, 2002$46 million · 1 eventReference the McNally Fire start data in the July 2002 Stormdata. Total cost of the fire was $45.7M with 14 structures lost and 150,696 acres burned. It was contained on August 29th after starting on July 21st.
• Heat in Maryland, August 1 to 5, 20027 deaths · 14 eventsHigh pressure off the Atlantic Coast pumped hot and humid air into the Mid-Atlantic region. This caused high temperatures to reach between 92 and 100 degrees August 1st through the 5th.
• Heat in Virginia, August 1 to 5, 200222 eventsHigh pressure off the Atlantic Coast pumped hot and humid air into the Mid-Atlantic region. This caused high temperatures to reach between 92 and 100 degrees August 1st through the 5th.
• Heat in West Virginia, August 1 to 5, 20027 eventsHigh pressure off the Atlantic Coast pumped hot and humid air into the Mid-Atlantic region. This caused high temperatures to reach between 92 and 100 degrees August 1st through the 5th.
• Heat in Louisiana, August 1, 20021 death · 1 eventJean David was found by his Logansport resident's relatives who had not talked to him for several days. They found his deceased body in his apartment on Sycamore Street in Logansport.
• Heat in Missouri, August 1 to 6, 20021 death · 59 injured · 22 eventsThe hot temperatures of late July continued across central and eastern Missouri into early August. The temperature his 101 degrees in St. Louis on August 1, and then was 99 for the 3rd, 4th, and 5th. Columbia hit 99 degrees on August 3rd.
• Heat in Illinois, August 1 to 6, 200214 eventsThe hot temperatures from late July continued into early August. High temperatures were in the upper 90s to around 100 with the heat index from 105 to 115.
• Heat in Illinois, August 3 to 4, 20021 death · 1 eventHigh temperatures on August 3rd and 4th were near 90 with low temperatures in the lower to middle 70s on the morning of August 4th. One person died from this short hot spell.
• Heat in Illinois, August 3 to 5, 20028 injured · 19 eventsHigh temperatures reached 100 degrees for three consecutive days in parts of southern Illinois. At Carbondale, the high was 100 degrees on the 3rd and 4th, and 101 on the 5th. Humidity contributed to the problem, with afternoon heat indices peaking near 105 degrees.
• Heat in Missouri, August 3 to 5, 20023 injured · 11 eventsHigh temperatures reached the upper 90's for three consecutive days. At Cape Girardeau, the high was 97 degrees on the 3rd, and 98 degrees on both the 4th and 5th. Humidity levels added to the problem, with afternoon heat indices peaking near 105 degrees.
• Wildfire in California, August 4, 2002$130,000 · 1 eventBlack bears, rummaging through an unoccupied cabin, knocked over a halogen lamp which started a fire. The fire consumed the cabin and several power lines, and killed one of the bears.
• Wildfire in Oregon, August 7 to 10, 20024 eventsA Red Flag Warning was issued at the above times for fire weather zones 618/619/620/621 for forecast poor relative humidity recoveries. Major wildfires were ongoing in the warning area.
• Wildfire in California, August 9 to 11, 20024 injured · 1 eventExtremely hot and dry conditions over the Cuyamaca Mountains in eastern San Diego County were responsible for the rapid growth of a brush fire that was caused by sparks from a welder's torch.
• Heat in Illinois, August 10 to 12, 20022 deaths · 1 eventHigh temperatures reached the upper 80s to lower 90s from August 10th through the 12th. Overnight low temperatures were in the upper 60s to near 70. Two fatalities occurred in Chicago.
• Heat in Pennsylvania, August 11 to 20, 20028 deaths · 10 eventsThe longest run of days with high temperatures of 90 or greater this summer occurred across Eastern Pennsylvania from the 11th through the 20th. This was the longest heat wave for the state since the twelve day heat wave during the summer of 1999.
• Heat in New Jersey, August 11 to 20, 20021 death · 17 eventsThe longest run of days with high temperatures of 90 or greater for the summer occurred across central and southern New Jersey from the 11th through the 20th. This was the longest heat wave for the state since the twelve day heat wave during the summer of 1999.
• Heat in Maryland, August 11 to 20, 20025 eventsThe longest run of days with high temperatures of 90 or greater this summer occurred across the Maryland Eastern Shore from the 11th through the 20th. This was the longest heat wave for the Eastern Shore since the summer of 1999.
• Heat in Delaware, August 11 to 20, 20024 eventsThe longest run of days with high temperatures of 90 or greater this summer occurred across Delaware from the 11th through the 20th. This was the longest heat wave for the state since the summer of 1999.
• Wildfire in California, August 11 to 15, 200210 injured · $15,000 · 1 eventAn arson caused fire consumed 500 acres of rugged brush covered hills, a garage, a utility trailer, and two 25 gallon water storage tanks before being brought under control. About 150 people from Calimesa and Cherry Valley evacuated. Homes in Yucaipa were also threatened.
• Heat in Maryland, August 12 to 19, 20024 deaths · 14 eventsHigh pressure sitting off the Atlantic coastline pumped hot and humid air into the region between August 12th and 19th. Temperatures soared well into the 90s during the afternoon each day and heat index values approached 100 degrees.
• Heat in Virginia, August 12 to 19, 200222 eventsHigh pressure sitting off the Atlantic coastline pumped hot and humid air into the region between August 12th and 19th. Temperatures soared well into the 90s during the afternoon each day and heat index values approached 100 degrees.
• Heat in West Virginia, August 12 to 19, 20027 eventsHigh pressure sitting off the Atlantic coastline pumped hot and humid air into the region between August 12th and 19th. Temperatures soared well into the 90s during the afternoon each day and heat index values approached 100 degrees.
• Wildfire in Utah, August 12 to 16, 20021 eventThis wildfire became known as the Brownie fire and consumed 153 acres of forest in the Ashley National Forest. The cost of fighting the fire was 419 thousand dollars.
• Wildfire in Colorado, August 13 to 16, 20021 eventThis lightning caused fire became known as the Burn Ridge fire. The fire occurred in the Routt National Forest and consumed 3,000 acres of mixed timber by August 16th. The fire was included as part of the Mount Zirkel Complex after the 16th of the month.
• Wildfire in New Jersey, August 15 to 28, 20022 eventsA wildfire on the Fort Dix Military Reservation consumed about 3,000 acres of forest, fields, old cranberry bogs and swamps. Peat and underground roots helped spread the fire as drought conditions left the vegetation in a flammable state.
• Wildfire in Arizona, August 15 to 31, 20022 eventsThe Pack Rat Fire was lightning caused on August 15 about 15 miles north of Payson on the south side of the Mogollon Rim. The fire also spread north and over the rim about 8 miles east of Pine. Numerous other small lightning fires (<100 acres) started on August 15.
• Wildfire in Washington, August 16 to 20, 2002$200,000 · 1 eventThe early morning high wind event on August 16 blew over dozens of power lines. The downed power lines, dry fuels and high wind then contributed to several wildfires.
• Wildfire in Colorado, August 16 to 22, 20021 eventThe Schaff #2 fire occurred in the San Juan National Forest. The fire occurred in the Weminuche Wilderness. 556 acres of forest were consumed and a few outbuildings were threatened. The cost of fighting the fire was 435 thousand dollars.
• Wildfire in Colorado, August 17 to 31, 20021 eventThe Mount Zirkel Complex was comprised of the Burn Ridge and Hinman fires. These fires occurred in the Routt National Forest/Mount Zirkel Wilderness area. This complex of fires continued to burn through the end of August, consuming 30,696 acres of forest.
• Wildfire in California, August 17 to 20, 2002$290,000 · 1 eventA wildfire burned 715 acres of forest in San Luis Obispo County, about 12 miles east of Paso Robles. The fire cost about $290,000 to fight, but resulted in no deaths or injuries.
• Wildfire in Oregon, August 17 to 22, 20024 injured · 1 eventThe Siuslaw River Fire located 18 miles west of Veneta burned 840 acres. Cause of fire is unknown. Cost of suppression was $1.5 million. Neither property damage nor deaths were reported.
• Heat in Maryland, August 22, 20023 deaths · 14 eventsHigh temperatures rose into the mid 90s on the 22nd. With dew points in the lower to mid 70s, heat index values soared to near 105 degrees during the afternoon. Three people died as a result of the excessive heat.
• Heat in Virginia, August 22, 200222 eventsHigh temperatures rose into the mid 90s on the 22nd. With dew points in the lower to mid 70s, heat index values soared to near 105 degrees during the afternoon.
• Heat in West Virginia, August 22, 20027 eventsHigh temperatures rose into the mid 90s on the 22nd. With dew points in the lower to mid 70s, heat index values soared to near 105 degrees during the afternoon.
• Wildfire in Oregon, August 26 to 28, 20024 eventsA Red Flag Warning was issued at the above times for fire weather zones 618/619/620 for forecast poor relative humidity recoveries. Major wildfires were ongoing in the warning area.
• Heat in Missouri, August 26, 20021 death · 1 eventThe State Health Department reported a heat related death in St. Louis. Details were not yet available. The high temperature that day was 86.
• Wildfire in California, August 27 to 28, 2002$750,000 · 1 eventTwo homes and five outbuildings were destroyed, a third home suffered major damage, and 275 acres of brush burned in five separate fires set by an arsonist.
• Wildfire in California, August 29 to 30, 20021 death · $20,000 · 1 eventA 350 acre fire burned in the Lytle creek Area. Fire investigators searching near the start of the fire, found a burned vehicle and the body of a 70 year old man about 200 yards away. The cause of death had not been ascertained as of 9/9/02.
• Drought in West Virginia, September 1 to 25, 200234 eventsThe hot and dry pattern of August lingered into much of September. The hottest weather was during the first 10 days of the month. Readings in the 90s were common across the lowlands.
• Drought in New Jersey, September 1 to 30, 200221 eventsSeptember began with drought conditions intensifying across New Jersey. The month though saw a return of near normal precipitation. This was too late for farmers. On the 3rd, Governor James McGreevey requested to Congress a federal farm disaster declaration.
• Drought in Michigan, September 1 to 30, 200217 eventsThe month of September turned out to be like much of the summer of 2002 was, hot and dry. The dry weather was especially severe from the northern suburbs of Detroit to the Tri Cities and thumb.
• Drought in Georgia, September 1 to 30, 200216 eventsMild to moderate drought conditions were over southeast Geogia for most of the month. Several rain producing systems along with nearby tropical storms produced enough rainfall to improve the long term drought conditions that have scorched the region for the past couple of years.
• Drought in New York, September 1 to 30, 200215 eventsThe wetter trend continued during September with above normal rainfall. Near normal to above normal precipitation occurred in 6 of the past 7 months (March through September).
• Drought in Ohio, September 1 to 25, 20029 eventsThe emerging drought from August peaked during the first 2 weeks of September, as hot and dry conditions lingered. Rains of 1.5 to 2 inches, plus cooler temperatures, dampened the drought by the fourth week of the month.
• Drought in South Carolina, September 1 to 30, 20029 eventsModerate drought conditions persisted throughout the month as several tropical systems impacted the region producing copious rainfall.
• Drought in Pennsylvania, September 1 to 30, 20028 eventsEastern Pennsylvania entered September with drought conditions intensifying. On September 5th Governor Mark Schweiker added Bucks, Montgomery and Philadelphia Counties to the drought emergency list.
• Drought in New Jersey, September 1 to 30, 20026 eventsThe wetter trend continued during September with above normal rainfall. Near normal to above normal precipitation occurred in 6 of the past 7 months (March through September).
• Drought in Maryland, September 1 to 30, 20025 eventsPrecipitation returned to normal (even above normal levels in the southern Eastern Shore) during September across the Maryland Eastern Shore. Other than late planted soybeans, it was too late to help most crops.
• Drought in Delaware, September 1 to 30, 20024 eventsDelaware entered September with continuing drought conditions. Many daily, monthly and all time record low levels for streamflow and groundwater levels were being set and an outdoor burning ban was in effect.
• Drought in Kentucky, September 1 to 25, 20024 eventsThe hot and dry pattern of August spilled over into the 1st half of September. Readings in the 90s were common for the first 10 days of the month. Drought conditions developed. Conditions improved during the fourth week, as rains and cooler temperatures arrived.
• Drought in Kentucky, September 1 to 30, 2002$70 million · 22 eventsA prolonged summer drought gradually worsened, becoming severe in early September. Many parts of western Kentucky received no measurable rainfall through the first two weeks of September.
• Drought in Indiana, September 1 to 30, 2002$70 million · 6 eventsA prolonged summer drought gradually worsened, becoming severe by early September. Many parts of southwest Indiana received little or no measurable rainfall during August. At Boonville, only 0.08 inch was measured in August. Evansville reported an August total of 0.63 inch.
• Drought in Missouri, September 1 to 19, 200211 eventsModerate drought conditions persisted over southeast Missouri through mid September. A very heavy rainfall event in mid August was the exception to persistent dryness that began in June. Crop losses were mitigated by the August rainfall.
• Drought in Illinois, September 1 to 30, 2002$53 million · 19 eventsA prolonged summer drought gradually worsened, becoming severe by early September. Many parts of southern Illinois received little or no measurable rainfall in July.
• Drought in Kansas, September 1 to 30, 200223 eventsThe drought conditions that started in July continued through September. Many crops and pasturelands over the area were greatly affected. Farm ponds were void of ample water for cattle and crops were either plowed up or made into fodder for farm animals.
• Wildfire in Colorado, September 1 to 12, 2002$500,000 · 1 eventThe Big Fish fire began in mid July and was caused by lightning. The fire occurred in the White River National Forest and consumed 17,506 acres of timber, as well as 9 structures.
• Drought in New Mexico, September 1 to 30, 200222 eventsVery dry conditions continued across north and central New Mexico during early September with lingering high fire danger conditions in the national forests and state grasslands, plus continuing concern of unusally low water flows on both the Rio Grande and Pecos Rivers.
• Drought in Colorado, September 1 to 30, 200221 eventsThe extreme to exceptional drought officially persisted across western Colorado through the month of September. However, periods of rainfall reduced the usage of water across the area, while decreasing the risk of wildfires.
• Drought in Utah, September 1 to 30, 20027 eventsExtreme to exceptional drought continued across the eastern quarter of Utah through the month of September. However, periods of rainfall reduced the usage of water across the area, while decreasing the risk of wildfires.
• Wildfire in Colorado, September 1 to 14, 20021 eventThe Mount Zirkel Complex was comprised of the Burn Ridge and Hinman fires. These were lightning caused fires which began in July and August. This complex was located in the Routt National Forest/Mount Zirkel Wilderness area. The fires consumed 31,016 acres of timber.
• Wildfire in Colorado, September 1 to 11, 20021 eventThe Lost Lakes fire began in mid July due to lightning. The fire occurred in the Routt National Forest and consumed 5,538 acres of timber. Favorable weather conditions and precipitation received on the fire in early September resulted in minimal fire behavior.
• Wildfire in Oregon, September 1 to 2, 20024 eventsA Red Flag Warning was issued at 1500 PDT on 08/31 for fire weather zones 618/619/620 for forecast poor relative humidity recoveries. Major wildfires were ongoing in the warning area.
• Heat in California, September 1, 20021 death · 1 eventA hiker succumbed to heat exhaustion in Modjeska Canyon. Temperatures in the area were 109 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Wildfire in California, September 1 to 12, 200214 injured · $13 million · 1 eventThe Curve Fire burned 20,857 acres of land in the Angeles National Forest. The Curve Fire, which was caused by candles from a ritual sacrifice, destroyed 73 structures and injured at least 14 people.
• Excessive Heat in Georgia, September 3 to 12, 200297 eventsA strong ridge of high pressure aloft stagnated over the southeastern U.S. for several days during the first 11 days of September. Consequently, temperatures were unseasonably warm during the first part of September.
• Wildfire and Hail in Montana, September 5 to 6, 20020.75 in hail · 2 eventsCow Creek:Cause: Lightning Strike. Fire grew to 2,000 acres within four hours.Begin Date: September 6, 2002End Date: September 8, 2002Acres Burned: 5495Total Persons: 113Structural Loss: 2Cost: 223,000K
• Wildfire in Oregon, September 13 to 15, 20022 eventsA Red Flag Warning was issued for Fire Weather zones 624/625 effective at the above times for expected gusty winds combined with low relative humidities. South winds 15-25 were reported with minimum relative humidities of 5-15% and ridgetop recoveries in the 20-30% range.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, September 17, 2002$7,000 · 1 eventA fire burned almost 70 acres of sugar cane, kiawe, and brush along Hansen Road, not far from the Hansen Road-Hana Highway intersection. Smoke from the fire shut down Hansen Road for about four hours in the afternoon hours of the 17th.
• Wildfire in Oregon, September 18 to 21, 20023 eventsA Red Flag warning effective at the above times was issued for fire weather zones 618/619 for gusty ridgetop winds and poor relative humidity recoveries during an offshore wind event.
• Wildfire in California, September 22 to 30, 200214 injured · $15 million · 1 eventThe Williams Fire burned 38.094 acres of land in the Angeles National Forest. This fire, which was located about 25 miles north of Azusa, destroyed 77 structures, including 62 cabins. No reports on the number of possible injuries have been received.
• Wildfire in Oregon, September 23 to 26, 20024 eventsA Red Flag warning effective 09/23-26/02 was issued for fire weather zones 618/619 for gusty ridgetop winds and poor relative humidity recoveries during an offshore wind event.
• Drought in New Jersey, October 1 to 31, 200221 eventsOctober 2002 saw the return of well above normal precipitation to New Jersey. It was also the first month since June that precipitation was above normal in every county. Soaking rains on the 10th and 11th alone accounted for the normal October precipitation.
• Drought in New York, October 1 to 31, 200215 eventsThe wet pattern continued during October with well above normal rainfall. With the exception of July, near normal to above normal precipitation occurred in 7 of the past 8 months (March through October).
• Drought in Pennsylvania, October 1 to 31, 20028 eventsOctober 2002 brought to Eastern Pennsylvania the first widespread wetter than normal month since March. Every county was wetter than normal and in most cases received over twice the normal monthly precipitation for October.
• Drought in New Jersey, October 1 to 31, 20026 eventsThe wet pattern continued during October with well above normal rainfall. With the exception of July, near normal to above normal precipitation occurred in 7 of the past 8 months (March through October).
• Drought in Maryland, October 1 to 31, 20025 eventsFor the first time since March, every county along the Maryland Eastern Shore was wetter than normal during October. Precipitation in most areas was twice of normal.
• Drought in Delaware, October 1 to 31, 20024 eventsFor the first time since March, every county in Delaware was wetter than normal during October. Precipitation in most areas was greater than twice of normal.
• Drought in Colorado, October 1 to 31, 200221 eventsThe month began with extreme to exceptional drought conditions across western Colorado.
• Drought in Utah, October 1 to 31, 20027 eventsThe month began with extreme to exceptional drought conditions across eastern Utah.
• Wildfire in Oregon, October 5 to 9, 20023 eventsA Red Flag Warning was issued at the above times. The warning was for strong ridgetop winds and poor relative humidity recoveries in fire weather zones 618/619. These zones include all or part of the above counties. Unfortunately, no verifying data was available for this warning.
• Heat in Alabama, October 6, 20021 eventThe high temperature of 88 degrees recorded at the Huntsville International Airport tied the record high for this date.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, October 6, 20021 eventA brush fire scorched about 60 acres of mature sugar cane a mile above Hana Highway near Maliko Gulch. Maui firefighters used several fire engines and the Air One helicopter to get the blaze under control.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, October 7 to 9, 20021 eventA brush fire that had burned almost 60 acres over several days at the end of September flared again over a three day period in early October. The fire was located above Kalihi Elementary School in Kalihi Valley. However, no injuries or serious property damage were reported.
• Wildfire in Oregon, October 11 to 12, 20026 eventsA Red Flag Warning was issued at the above times. The warning was for strong ridgetop winds and poor relative humidity recoveries in fire weather zones 617/618/619/620/621/622/623. These zones include all or part of the above counties.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, October 26, 20021 eventThree children playing with matches ignited a 50-acre blaze south of Kona Palisades on the Big Island, between Wela Place and Kahahiaka Street. Helicopters made water drops to help protect nearby homes. However, there were no reports of serious property damage or injuries.
• Drought in New Jersey, November 1 to 25, 200221 eventsAn unseasonably wet November ended the meteorological drought across New Jersey. A series of northeasters on November 5th and 6th, November 11th and 12th, November 16th and 17th dropped more precipitation than is normal for the month of November.
• Drought in Pennsylvania, November 1 to 25, 20028 eventsAn unseasonably wet November ended the meteorological drought across Eastern Pennsylvania. A series of northeasters on November 5th and 6th, November 11th and 12th, November 16th and 17th dropped more precipitation than is normal for the month of November.
• Drought in Maryland, November 1 to 25, 20025 eventsAn unseasonably wet November ended the meteorological drought across the Maryland Eastern Shore. A series of northeasters on November 5th and 6th, November 11th and 12th, November 16th and 17th dropped more precipitation than is normal for the month of November.
• Drought in Delaware, November 1 to 25, 20024 eventsAn unseasonably wet November ended the meteorological drought across Delaware. A series of northeasters on November 5th and 6th, November 11th and 12th, November 16th and 17th dropped more precipitation than is normal for the month of November.
• Drought in Kansas, November 1 to 30, 200223 eventsAfter a brief respite from an unusually wet October the dry weather of this past Summer returned in November. Although temperatures averaged near normal over the area, precipitation amounts averaged 1.5 to 2 inches below normal.
• Drought in Colorado, November 1 to 30, 200221 eventsAn active weather regime early in November maintained near normal river basin precipitation across the area. However, mountain snowpack remained insufficient for improvement, and extreme drought conditions persisted across western Colorado.
• Drought in Utah, November 1 to 30, 20027 eventsAn active weather regime early in November maintained near normal river basin precipitation across the area. However, mountain snowpack remained insufficient for improvement, and extreme drought conditions persisted across eastern Utah.
• Wildfire in Oregon, November 1, 20025 eventsA Red Flag Warning was issued at 1530 PDT on 10/31/02 and cancelled at 1200 PDT on 11/01/02. The warning was for strong ridgetop winds and poor relative humidity recoveries in fire weather zones 618/619/620/621 and southern zone 616.
• Heat in Alabama, November 10, 20026 eventsUnseasonably warm air surged northward from the Gulf of Mexico and covered most of north and central Alabama. Record high temperatures of 80 to 85 degrees were recorded across the entire area.
• Wildfire in California, November 20 to 22, 20022 injured · 1 eventDry vegetation and winds gusting to 35 mph caused a brush fire to grow to 477 acres. No structures were threatened. Two fire fighters suffered from heat exhaustion and dehydration.
• Wildfire and High Wind in California, November 26, 20021 injured · $320,000 · 70 kt wind · 6 eventsTrees and power poles were knocked down in Redlands, Riverside, Tustin, Santa Ana, San Clemente, and Lakeside. Several cars and houses were damaged.
• Wildfire in California, November 27 to 29, 2002$22,000 · 1 eventThe cause of the Rock Creek fire is unknown but it burned 420 acres before containment by Sierra NF crews.
• Drought in Nebraska, December 1 to 31, 2002$480 million · 24 eventsThe prolonged drought across central and south-central Nebraska occasionally was classified into the extreme to exceptional category this summer and fall. Most dry land crops were near a total loss and there was some decreased yield with irrigated crops.
• Drought in Kansas, December 1 to 31, 2002$60 million · 6 eventsThe prolonged drought across north-central Kansas occasionally was classified into the severe category this year. Most dry land crops were hard hit and there was some decreased yield with irrigated crops.
• Drought in Kansas, December 1 to 31, 200223 eventsThe drought conditions of the past Summer and Autumn continued into December. Only .05 of an inch of rain was recorded at Topeka which tied the second driest December on record.
• Drought in New Mexico, December 1 to 31, 200222 eventsDry conditions dominated much of the month across northern and central New Mexico with extended periods between any wetting precipitation. Heavier snows were limited generally to higher elevation locations above 8500 feet.
• Drought in Colorado, December 1 to 31, 200221 eventsOccasional storms brought precipitation to western Colorado during the month. However, precipitation amounts were not significant enough to have a major impact on the extreme drought conditions that persisted.
• Drought in Utah, December 1 to 31, 20027 eventsOccasional storms brought precipitation to much of extreme eastern Utah during the month. However, precipitation amounts were not significant enough to have a major impact on the extreme drought conditions that persisted across the area.
• Drought in U.S. Virgin Islands, December 1 to 31, 2002$200,000 · 1 eventThe Virgin Islands Daily New reported that East End of St. Croix was suffering a localized severe drought . According to local farmers this drought compares to the drought of the early 70s.

Every billion-dollar disasterEvery storm of 2002Tornadoes in 2002

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.