Western/Central Drought/Heat Wave

Losses, 2024 dollars

$8.7 billion

Losses at the time

$5.0 billion

Deaths

35

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.

• Drought in Puerto Rico, March 1 to 31, 20031 eventCoffee farmers in western Puerto Rico, Barrio Rio Cañas, indicated that dry spell has impacted the coffee trees and they have have not bloomed.
• Drought in Texas, March 1 to 30, 20038 eventsSoil moisture values were near to slightly above normal. However, the region still remains in a long-term drought, with local reservoirs at well-below-normal levels.
• Drought in New Mexico, March 1, 200322 eventsPeriodic snows continued throughout the month providing some additional relief from long term drought conditions, except for northwest areas of the state which remained drier.
• Drought in Colorado, March 1 to 31, 200321 eventsDespite many significant snowfall events in the mountains and some northern valleys of western Colorado, extreme drought conditions persisted throughout western Colorado. Please see the April 2003 Storm Data publication for a continuation of this drought saga.
• Drought in Utah, March 1 to 31, 20037 eventsDespite several significant snowfall events in the mountains, extreme drought conditions persisted throughout extreme eastern Utah. Please see the April 2003 Storm Data publication for a continuation of this drought saga.
• Heat in Florida, March 1 to 23, 20033 eventsDuring the 25-day period from February 27 through March 23 eighteen daily heat records were set in southeast Florida. These were more heat records than during any other 25-day period in southeast Florida at any time of year and at any time in history.
• Wildfire and High Wind in Alaska, March 12 to 14, 20032 injured · $11 million · 96 kt wind · 4 eventsA "Bora" type windstorm hit much of the Matanuska Valley, Anchorage and portions of the Kenai Peninsula.Very cold air funneled down the Matanuska Valley, driven by a large high centered over the Chukotsk Peninsula.
• Wildfire in U.S. Virgin Islands, March 13, 2003$100,000 · 1 eventBrush fires fueled by strong winds scorched hundreds of acres on St Croiox, at Estates Bethlehem, Calguohoun, Cobble, and Lowry Hill. The extremely dry conditions appeared to have caused multiple fires. Several telephone poles were damaged, and some livestock may have perished.
• Wildfire in Puerto Rico, March 16 to 19, 2003$3.6 million · 1 eventThe lack of significant rainfall in the Maricao State Forest during the month of March, typical of this time of the year, contributed to the dry conditions which helped fuel a forest fire which burned 296 acres during a period of four days.
• Wildfire in North Dakota, March 24, 20031 eventVery dry conditions, low humidity and wind gusts to 40 mph triggered a 200 acre wild fire just north of McKenzie in Burleigh county. A second, smaller 4 acre fire started just northwest of Bismarck near Pioneer Park.
• Drought in New Mexico, April 1 to 30, 200322 eventsDry and windy weather during the month sapped snow packs and further reduced the available snow melt and season runoff.
• Drought in Colorado, April 1 to 30, 200321 eventsDespite several significant snowfall events, extreme drought conditions persisted throughout western Colorado. Please see the May 2003 Storm Data publication for a continuation of this drought saga.
• Drought in Utah, April 1 to 30, 20037 eventsExtreme drought conditions persisted throughout extreme eastern Utah, as precipitation was quite minimal for the month. Please see the May 2003 Storm Data publication for a continuation of this drought saga.
• Wildfire in South Dakota, April 3 to 6, 20031 eventDry vegetation along with windy conditions caused a grassland burn northeast of Bath near the James River to get out of control during the early afternoon hours. Strong north to northeast winds of 20 to 35 mph caused the fire to spread quickly south along the James River.
• Wildfire in U.S. Virgin Islands, April 4, 2003$50,000 · 1 eventA brush fire was reported near Grassy Point in St Croix. It was burning up in open terrain and hills. A substantial number of acres were burned. Lack of rainfall could have been a contributing factor.
• Wildfire in North Dakota, April 9 to 13, 20031 injured · 2 eventsA large wildfire erupted along the Burleigh and Emmons county line, along the Missouri river, better know as theMcLean Bottoms. The fire was started by an abandon campfire.
• Wildfire in North Dakota, April 9 to 13, 20031 eventStutsman county firefighters spent the week of April 9th through the 13th battling two dozen wildfires across the countyburning over 9000 acres. Fires flared up near Cleveland, Medina and Windsor in Stutsman county.
• Wildfire in Illinois, April 14, 20031 eventStrong southwest winds gusting over 30 mph along with relative humidities between 15 and 20 percent and very dry fuel moisture aided a 234 acre wildfire at the Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie in southern Will county.
• Wildfire in Illinois, April 24, 20031 eventA wildfire burned about 200 acres of mainly grass, brush and cattails west of Morris in Grundy county Thursday evening, April 24th. No injuries or damage were reported.
• Wildfire in Michigan, April 26, 2003$20,000 · 1 eventA grass fire burned half of a square mile between 24 Mile and Sugarbush roads in Chesterfield Township. No homes were damaged, but a barn was burned on Sugarbush Road.
• Wildfire in Illinois, April 27 to 28, 20032 eventsA wildfire burned about 700 acres at the Illinois Beach State Park near Zion in Lake county Illinois. The fire started Sunday night and was declared out around Noon Monday the 28th. Over 150 firefighters battled the blaze.
• Drought in New Mexico, May 1 to 31, 200322 eventsDry spring weather persisted across most of north and central New Mexico aggravating high forest fire danger. Cibola and Lincoln National Forests saw early implementation of fire use restrictions.
• Drought in Colorado, May 1 to 31, 200321 eventsDespite above normal precipitation across much of western Colorado during the month, extreme drought conditions persisted throughout the area. Please see the June 2003 Storm Data publication for a continuation of this drought situation.
• Drought in Utah, May 1 to 31, 20037 eventsExtreme drought conditions persisted during the month throughout the area. Please see the June 2003 Storm Data publication for a continuation of this drought situation.
• Wildfire in Alaska, May 1, 20033 eventsA near record dry April and below normal winter snowfall resulted in unusually high fire danger in the Northern Panhandle.
• Wildfire in Colorado, May 1, 20031 eventA controlled burn three miles west of the Forest Lakes subdivision became a raging wildfire when breezy winds developed.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, May 9, 20031 eventA wildfire burned 70 acres of brush in Nanakuli on the western coast of Oahu. The blaze came within 50 feet of several homes, but the fire did no serious damage and caused no significant injuries. Twenty fire companies and the Air One helicopter fought the blaze.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, May 18, 20031 eventA fire burned 400 acres in Waikoloa Village in the South Kohala District on the Big Island of Hawaii. About 50 homes were evacuated in the town, but, in the end, the blaze caused only minor smoke and heat damage to a couple of dwellings.
• Wildfire in California, May 19, 20031 eventA brush fire, caused by fireworks, burned 41 acres before being brought under containment by 200 firefighters. This was the first wild fire of the 2003 fire season in San Diego County.
• Wildfire in Alaska, May 26 to 31, 2003$80,000 · 1 eventThe Rex Bridge wildfire started 20 miles south of Nenana from an illegal burn pile. The fire grew to 1500 acres before it was contained on the 7th of June. An entire home and two other structures, including an abandoned trailer, were destroyed by the fire on the 26th and 27th.
• Wildfire in California, May 26, 20031 eventA brush fire burned 15 acres before it was finally put out by firefighters. No injuries or structural damage occurred.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, May 28 to 31, 20031 eventA blaze started by a lava flow from Kilauea Volcano blackened approximately 5000 acres of prized rain forest vegetation east of Chain of Craters Road in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The extremely dry vegetation was in flames in a 2-mile swath along Kilauea's east rift.
• Heat in California, May 28, 20035 eventsUnusually early heat brought record high temperatures to the Kern County Mountains and Deserts on the 28th. Temperatures climbed to 109F at China Lake on the desert floor and even reached 96F at Tehachapi at the 4000 foot level in the Kern County Mountains.
• Heat in California, May 31, 20031 injured · 1 eventA hiker became dehydrated and suffered heat exhaustion on the Skyline Trail in Palm Springs.
• Wildfire in Alaska, June 1 to 7, 2003$80,000 · 1 eventEvent continued from May. The Rex Bridge wildfire started 20 miles south of Nenana from an illegal burn pile. The fire grew to 1500 acres before it was contained on the 7th of June.
• Drought in New Mexico, June 1 to 30, 200322 eventsDry weather worries continued across central and western areas throughout June, but the eastern plains saw a busy month for severe thunderstorms that brought much needed moisture.
• Drought in Colorado, June 1 to 30, 200321 eventsExtreme drought conditions persisted during the month across most of the area. Hot weather and rapid snowmelt led to sharp increases in surface water in parts of northwest Colorado resulting in a slight improvement of drought conditions.
• Drought in Utah, June 1 to 30, 20037 eventsExtreme drought conditions persisted during the month throughout the area. Abnormally dry weather resulted in an area of exceptional drought across extreme southeast Utah. Please see the July 2003 Storm Data publication for a continuation of this drought situation.
• Wildfire in California, June 2, 2003$15,000 · 1 eventThe McNamera Fire was of unknown origin and burned about 650 acres before containment. One primary structure was lost but no injuries or fatalities were reported.
• Heat in California, June 2 to 3, 20034 eventsThe first major warm spell came upon Interior Central California suddenly at the first of June after a relatively cool April and May time period.
• Wildfire in Colorado, June 2 to 7, 20031 eventThe Trail Creek Fire was lightning caused and occurred in the San Juan National Forest. The fire burned 89 acres of mixed timber before being contained. The estimated cost of fighting the fire was 600 thousand dollars.
• Wildfire in California, June 6, 2003$55,000 · 1 eventThe Shallock Fire was of human origin and burned about 564 acres before containment. No structure was lost nor were injuries or fatalities reported.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, June 7, 20031 eventA fire burned about 50 acres near Dole Plantation, along a mile stretch of Kamehameha Highway. The roadway was closed for a time because of the blaze. Forty firefighters from ten units fought the brush fire.
• Wildfire in California, June 13, 2003$10,000 · 1 eventA brush fire consumed 48 acres, one power pole, and threatened one structure.
• Wildfire in Utah, June 14 to 17, 20031 eventThis lightning caused fire became known as the Anna Laura Fire. The fire occurred on the Tavaputs Plateau in the Uintah and Ouray Indian Reservation. The fire consumed 240 acres of mixed brush, aspen, juniper, and pine trees.
• Wildfire in California, June 15 to 16, 20031 eventThe 152 Fire was of unknown origin and burned 2750 acres in Western Merced County. The cost of the fire was unknown but no structures were lost nor were there any injuries.
• Wildfire in California, June 15 to 16, 20031 injured · 1 eventA brush fire consumed 80 acres. One fire fighter suffered a broken leg. when a large rock rolled down the hillside into him.
• Wildfire in California, June 16 to 17, 20031 eventThe Caliente Fire consumed 1233 acres just west of Caliente in the foothills of Kern County. The cause and cost of the fire were unknown.
• Wildfire in Arizona, June 17 to 30, 2003$66 million · 1 eventThe Aspen wildfire started on June 17th in the Catalina Mountains by an unknown hiker on the Marshall Gulch and Aspen Loop trail. The Fire was first observed on the south face portion of Marshall Peak around 7000 feet.
• Heat in Nevada, June 18, 20032 deaths · 1 eventTwo men who were hiking died of heatstroke after walking for about an hour without water. Temperatures in the area had climbed to near 100 degrees.
• Wildfire in Utah, June 22 to 24, 20031 eventLightning was the probable cause of the Spruce Fire which occurred in Horse Canyon along the Book Cliffs. The fire consumed around 23 acres of pinyon pine and juniper trees.
• Heat in Pennsylvania, June 23 to 27, 20033 deaths · 5 eventsThe first run of excessive heat and humidity of the summer season occurred during the work week of June 23rd across Philadelphia and its suburbs. The highest temperatures and heat indices occurred on the 26th.
• Heat in Illinois, June 24 to 25, 20031 death · 1 eventHigh temperatures reached the lower 90s on June 24th and 25th across Chicago causing one person to die from the heat.
• Heat in New Jersey, June 24 to 27, 200311 eventsThe first run of excessive heat and humidity of the summer season occurred during the work week of June 23rd. The highest temperatures and heat indices occurred on the 26th. This was a marked contrast from the unseasonably cool and wet June prior to this week.
• Heat in Maryland, June 24 to 27, 20035 eventsThe first run of excessive heat and humidity of the summer season occurred during the work week of June 24th. The highest temperatures and heat indices occurred on the 26th. This was a marked contrast from the unseasonably cool and wet June prior to this week.
• Heat in Delaware, June 24 to 27, 20033 eventsThe first run of excessive heat and humidity of the summer season occurred during the work week of June 23rd across most of Delaware. The highest temperatures and heat indices occurred on the 26th.
• Heat in California, June 25 to 29, 20034 eventsLike the first part of the month, June ended with a persistent warm spell where high temperatures in the Central and Southern San Joaquin Valley were consistently 100 degrees F. or above for a stretch of 5 days.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, June 25 to 30, 20031 injured · 1 eventSix wildfires blackened about 3000 acres of mostly brush land in inaccessible parts of western and central Molokai. However, one of the blazes did briefly threaten homes in Maunaloa and forced the temporary evacuation of Molokai Ranch campsites.
• Wildfire in California, June 26 to 27, 20032 injured · 1 eventA brush fire grew to 324 acres, threatening 120 structures, and forcing the evacuation of 300 residents from the Torres Martinez Indian Reservation. Two fire fighters suffered from smoke inhalation.
• Wildfire in California, June 26, 20031 eventTemperatures above 100 degrees and low relative humidities helped three brush fires to grow rapidly. One closed part of Highway 91 for about an hour.
• Wildfire in California, June 26 to 29, 2003$800,000 · 1 eventThe Sawmill fire at Dutch Flat consumed 536 acres and burned 4 primary residences and 6 outbuildings. There were no fatalities on the fire that cost $800K to combat.
• Wildfire in California, June 28 to 29, 20031 eventThe Chimney Fire was human caused and the cost to contain the 565 acre fire was unknown. No fatalities occurred due to the fire.
• Wildfire in Utah, June 28 to 30, 20031 eventThis human caused fire became known as the Woodenshoe Fire. It was ignited in the Dark Canyon Wilderness area of the Manti-La Sal National Forest. The fire consumed 500 acres of mixed conifer trees by the end of June and continued burning into July.
• Wildfire in California, June 29 to 30, 2003$1.6 million · 1 eventThe Tejon Fire burned 1155 acres in the Tehachapi Mountains of Kern County at a cost of $1.59M. One travel trailer was destroyed but no fatalities occurred.
• Wildfire in Washington, June 29, 20031 eventA lightning sparked fire on Hatch Grade burned 150-200 acres of grass, sagebrush, and wheat. Fire District number five, the College Place Fire Department, and firefighters from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service all assisted in putting out the blaze.
• Wildfire in California, June 29 to 30, 20031 eventThe Royce fire origination was unknown but it destroyed 2 outbuildings and the cost to combat was undetermined. There were no fatalities.
• Heat in Virginia, June 30, 20031 death · 1 eventA 15-year-old-girl died of heat stroke on July 2nd while hiking on the Appalachian Trail along the Clarke and Loudoun County border. She was participating in a 13-day hiking trip with other students from Georgia, and she died on the 4th day of the hike.
• Wildfire in California, June 30, 20035 injured · 3 eventsTemperatures near 100 degrees and tinder dry brush led to a series of wildfires during the afternoon. One fire burned 300 acres in the hilly terrain northeast of Lake Skinner. A second brush fire in Riverside County burned 65 acres near Lake Matthews.
• Wildfire in California, June 30, 20031 eventThe I5 Fire was human caused and burned 1500 acres before containment on the 30th. The cost was unknown.
• Wildfire in Arizona, July 1 to 15, 2003$66 million · 1 eventThe Aspen wildfire started on June 17th in the Catalina Mountains by an unknown hiker on the Marshall Gulch and Aspen Loop trail. The Fire was first observed on the south face portion of Marshall Peak around 7000 feet.
• Drought in New Mexico, July 1 to 31, 200322 eventsJuly 2003 was the driest July on record for much of the state and the 2nd hottest July on record. These two factors allowed drought conditions to deteriorate.
• Drought in Colorado, July 1 to 31, 200321 eventsSevere to extreme drought conditions continued across western Colorado during the month. Although monsoon moisture did bring thunderstorms to the area, significant rainfall amounts were not widespread in coverage.
• Drought in Utah, July 1 to 31, 20037 eventsExtreme drought conditions persisted across eastern Utah with an area of exceptional drought in southeast Utah. Although monsoon moisture resulted in thunderstorms and scattered precipitation, rainfall was generally light across the area.
• Wildfire in Utah, July 1 to 16, 20031 eventThis human caused fire began on June 28. It occurred in the Dark Canyon Wilderness area of the Manti-LaSal National Forest. The fire consumed 2,710 acres of mixed conifer forest and brush. The estimated cost of fighting the fire was 568 thousand dollars.
• Heat in Idaho, July 1 to 31, 20039 eventsVery hot and dry weather covered all of southeast Idaho during the month of July. It was the 8th warmest July ever recorded at the Pocatello airport and the average high temperature for the month of 94.6 degrees was the warmest ever for the city.
• Wildfire in California, July 1 to 2, 20031 eventThis fire that burned 80 acres, began on the afternoon of June 30 in rugged terrain of East San Diego County.
• Wildfire in California, July 1, 20031 eventThe Tejon Fire burned 1155 acres in the Tehachapi Mountains of Kern County. See the month of June for further details.
• Wildfire in Montana, July 1 to 8, 20033 eventsLightning ignited numerous small wildfires across Garfield, Petroleum, and Southern Phillips Counties. While most of the fires were 100 acres or less, the Blue Pulaski fire reached 3000 acres near Hell Creek Recreation area north of Jordan before it was contained.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 1 to 10, 20031 eventThis lightning caused fire was named the Yankee Gulch Fire. The fire occurred on Bureau of Land Management public lands and consumed 1,501 acres of pinyon pine, juniper, and sage.
• Heat in California, July 1 to 30, 2003$2,000 · 4 eventsA consistently hot July was noted in Interior Central California denoted by the average high temperature of 101F at Fresno CA. During the month in the Central San Joaquin Valley, Fresno recorded 22 days of 100F or above which ties the 3rd highest number set in 1891.
• Wildfire in Idaho, July 2 to 3, 20031 event2300 acre Blackrock wildfire started by two teenagers burned sage and grass near Inkom southeast of Pocatello. No structural damage.
• Heat in Missouri, July 3 to 9, 20033 deaths · 93 injured · 9 eventsThe first heat wave of the summer caused 3 deaths in the City of St. Louis. On Juuly 6, a 78 year old man was found dead in his brick home with a body temperature of 111 degrees and a 54 year old man was found dead outside Busch Memorial Stadium.
• Heat in Illinois, July 3 to 9, 20032 eventsThe first heat wave of the summer hit the Metro East area starting on the 4th of July weekend. High temperatures during the period were in the middle 90s with the heat index around 105 degrees.
• Wildfire in California, July 3 to 4, 2003$810,000 · 1 eventThe Hunter Fire was fought by the California Division of Forestry and consumed 562 acres. The cause of the fire was unknown but no fatalities occurred nor were any structures lost.
• Wildfire in California, July 3, 20035 injured · $750,000 · 1 eventA fire broke out in a church under construction. Gusty winds caused the flames to ignite the brush and quickly burn 850 acres before the fire could be contained. Residents of the Sedco Hills subdivision were evacuated as a precaution.
• Heat in Missouri, July 4 to 5, 20031 death · 17 eventsOppressive conditions covered the area from July 4th through July 5th. The combination of heat and humidity drove afternoon heat indices into the 105 degree range. An 86 year old Bates county male died of heat related causes.
• Heat in Pennsylvania, July 4 to 9, 20034 deaths · 5 eventsA Bermuda high pressure system at both the surface and aloft gave Southeastern Pennsylvania a six day run of high temperatures in the 90s and dew point temperatures in the 70s. The two hottest days were July 4th and 5th.
• Heat in New Jersey, July 4 to 9, 200316 eventsA Bermuda high pressure system at both the surface and aloft gave central and southern New Jersey a six day run of high temperatures in the 90s and dew point temperatures in the 70s. The two hottest days were July 4th and 5th.
• Heat in California, July 4 to 5, 20039 injured · 2 eventsNine people were overcome by heat exhaustion in narrow canyons. Eight people were rescued on July 4 from Cedar Falls, located 10 miles east of Ramona. The next day, a 58 year old male was rescued from Hellhole Canyon Preserve, 7 miles east of Valley Center.
• Wildfire in California, July 4 to 6, 20033 injured · 1 eventThe "Stage Fire", consumed 1602 acres of brush before it was contained. Homes and ranches were threatened, prompting the evacuation of 200 residents.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 5 to 9, 20031 eventThis wildfire became known as the Beaver Fire and occurred in the Uncompahgre National Forest. The fire consumed 165 acres of timber.
• Wildfire in California, July 5 to 6, 20032 eventsOn July 5, the "Alabama Fire" consumed 35 acres in Cucamonga Canyon. On July 6, the "Georgia Fire" started just a few miles in the foothills above Alta Loma and burned 25 acres.
• Wildfire in Idaho, July 5 to 6, 20031 event300 acre rocky Knoll wildfire 10 miles south of Grace burned grass and sage. No property damage.
• Heat in California, July 5, 20031 death · 1 eventA man who was hiking alone near Amboy Crater was overcome by the heat and died.
• Wildfire in California, July 5, 20031 injured · 1 eventA brush fire burned 100 acres before it was contained. One fire fighter was overcome by heat exhaustion.
• Wildfire in California, July 6, 2003$20,000 · 1 eventA ten acre brush fire destroyed one vehicle and neared five homes before being contained.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, July 6 to 10, 20031 eventA brush fire burned about 2500 acres of pasture land and gulches in Kahikinui on the south-facing slopes of Haleakala in East Maui.
• Wildfire in California, July 7, 20031 eventA brush fire burned 7 acres in a vacant lot. Residents and 50 firefighters kept it from spreading to adjacent homes.
• Wildfire in Utah, July 7 to 8, 20031 eventThis wildfire became known as the Diamond Breaks Fire. The fire consumed 160 acres of pinyon pine and juniper on Bureau of Land Management public lands.
• Heat in Oklahoma, July 7, 20031 death · 1 eventHot temperatures killed an 83 year old woman after she became disoriented and drove down an oil field service road where she became trapped, eventually succombing to the heat.
• Wildfire in California, July 7 to 8, 20031 eventThe Pump Fire was fought by Kern County Fire Department and burned 747 acres. Its cost and cause is unknown but no fatalities occurred nor were any structures lost.
• Wildfire in California, July 7, 20031 eventA brush fire burned 25 acres near clusters of homes in the Del-Cerro area.
• Wildfire in Oregon, July 8 to 10, 20031 eventThe Big Ridge fire was lightning sparked and burned 140 acres. The cost of fighting the fire totaled $25,000.
• Wildfire in California, July 8, 20031 eventThe Point Fire was fought by Sequoia National Forest and burned 180 acres. The cause and cost is unknown but no structures or lives were lost.
• Wildfire in California, July 8, 20031 eventThe Frazier Fire was fought by California Division of Forestry and burned 750 acres. Its cause and cost is unknown but no structures were lost nor did any fatalities occur.
• Wildfire in California, July 8 to 10, 2003$680,000 · 1 eventThe North Fork Fire was fought by California Division of Forestry and burned 360 acres. The cause was human but no fatalities or structures were lost.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, July 8, 20031 eventA fire burned 30 acres of brush near Haleiwa, threatening homes and businesses. The fire started on the east side of the Joseph P. Leong Highway and then jumped the highway to the west, moving within 50 feet of historic homes and stores near the North Shore Market Place.
• Wildfire in California, July 8 to 11, 2003$1.3 million · 1 eventThe Woodlot Fire inside Yosemite National Park burned 458 acres. The cause is unknown but no structures or fatalities occurred.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 8 to 19, 20031 eventThis fire became known as the Brush Mountain Fire. The fire occurred on Bureau of Land Management property and consumed 5,292 acres of mixed conifer forest, brush, and grass. The estimated cost of fighting the fire was 2.1 million dollars.
• Heat in Missouri, July 9 to 11, 20031 death · 1 eventA 94 year old Jackson county female died due to heat related causes. High heat and humidity was observed from July 9th through July 11th.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 9 to 21, 20031 eventThis wildfire became known as the Bear Creek Fire. The fire occurred in the San Juan National Forest and consumed 1,869 acres of mixed conifer forest. The estimated cost to fight the fire was 1.3 million dollars.
• Heat in California, July 12 to 13, 200314 injured · 2 eventsOn Saturday, July 10, four separate groups of hikers in the Cedar Falls area, 10 miles east of Ramona, where overcome by heat exhaustion. On Sunday July 11, another two hikers were overcome by heat exhaustion there as well as by the Lake Poway dam.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 12 to 15, 20031 eventThis wildfire was named the Dotsero Crater Fire and occurred on Bureau of Land Management property. The fire consumed 1,232 acres of mixed conifer, sage, and grass. The estimated cost of fighting the fire was 337 thousand dollars.
• Heat in California, July 12, 20031 death · 1 eventA man and his son became stuck in the desert at 200 pm. By 500 pm they both set out to look for help and the man's son was overcome by the heat and died.
• Wildfire in Wyoming, July 12 to 22, 20031 eventThe East Table Wildfire was an accidental, human-caused fire. The fire crossed the Snake River and approached Highway 89, resulting in the closure of Highway 89 for several days. The fire burned 3,595 acres. The estimated cost of fighting the fire was 3.3 million dollars.
• Wildfire in California, July 12, 20031 eventAn six acre brush fire forced the closure of Highway 79 for several hours. No structures were damaged.
• Wildfire in California, July 13, 20031 eventA brush fire burned 20 acres before being contained.
• Wildfire in Arizona, July 13 to 31, 20032 eventsThe Kinishba Fire was started by a lightning strike about 15 miles northeast of Cedar Creek in Gila County. The fire spread into Navajo County the next day. Fuels were extremely dry in ponderosa, pinyon/juniper, oak, chaparral, and short grass.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 13 to 15, 20031 eventThis wildfire was named the Alta Fire and occurred in the Uncompahgre National Forest. The fire consumed 120 acres of spruce, fir, and aspen forest. The estimated cost of fighting the fire was 307 thousand dollars.
• Heat in Missouri, July 14 to 18, 20032 deaths · 19 eventsOppressive heat and humidity combined to produce heat indices as high as 110 degrees, from July 14th through July 18th. A 37 year old male and a 79 year old male died of heat related causes in Jackson county.
• Heat in Kansas, July 14 to 18, 20037 eventsOppressive heat and humidity over extreme eastern Kansas from July 14th through July 18th.Heat indices reached 110 degrees.
• Wildfire in Montana, July 14 to 20, 20034 eventsLightning ignited a series of wildfires starting on July 14. The Mickey Butte fire in Southwest Valley and Southeast Phillips Counties reached 3500 acres before it was contained on July 20.
• Heat in California, July 14, 20031 death · 1 eventA man whose truck became disabled in the desert tried to walk to safety. He was overcome by the heat and died near his home.
• Wildfire in California, July 14 to 15, 20031 eventA brush fire burned 35 acres near the intersection of Wilson Valley road and Highway 371.
• Wildfire in California, July 15 to 16, 20031 eventThe Hillside Fire along Highway 58 and fought by Kern County Fire Department burned 1830 acres. Its cost and cause are unknown but there were no structures or lives lost.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 15 to 18, 20031 eventThis wildfire became known as the Carr Fire. The fire consumed 125 acres of pinyon pine, juniper, and sage. The estimated cost of fighting the fire was 253 thousand dollars.
• Wildfire in Wyoming, July 16 to 30, 20031 eventDry lightning and gusty winds started the Deep Lake Wildfire on July 16. On July 17, fifteen boy scouts had to be rescued via helicopter as the fire approached Deep Lake. The fire burned 6,886 acres. The estimated cost to fight the fire was 1.3 million dollars.
• Wildfire in California, July 16 to 24, 200314 injured · $1.0 million · 2 eventsThe "Coyote Fire" was started by lightning just north of the Riverside/San Diego County line. This fire burned 18,705 acres before being contained.
• Wildfire in Washington, July 16, 2003$1.0 million · 1 eventA human caused fire on the north edge of the town of Okanogan during very dry summer conditions was fanned by estimated 35 mph wind gusts. The fire quickly spread to 300 acres in size and engulfed a residential subdivision. Six houses were destroyed and several others damaged.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 16 to 31, 20031 eventSeveral lighting caused fires occurred in Mesa Verde National Park and they became known as the Balcony House Complex. The complex consisted of the Mocassin, White, Balcony, and Park fires. The fires consumed 2,750 acres of pinyon pine and juniper by the end of July.
• Wildfire in Montana, July 16 to 27, 2003$3.9 million · 1 eventThe Missouri Breaks Complex Fires started on July 16th due to lightning strikes. The complex of fires included four fires in Eastern Garfield County. The four fires included the Germain, Ghost Coulee, Big Coulee and Indian fires and was classified as a type two incident.
• Wildfire in Wyoming, July 18 to 29, 20031 eventThe Amethyst wildfire was started by dry lightning. Several nature trails had to be closed. A total of 315 acres were burned. The estimated cost of fighting the fire was 650 thousand dollars.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, July 18 to 22, 20031 eventA wildfire blackened 10,500 acres of grassland near South Point on the Big Island of Hawaii, forced the evacuation of eight homes, and destroyed a home under construction. Some livestock may also have been killed by the fire.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 18 to 26, 20031 eventLightning was the probable cause of this wildfire which was named the Bolt Fire. The fire occurred on the Southern Ute Indian Reservation and consumed 2,160 acres of mixed conifer forest and oak brush. A total of 24 residences were threatened by the fire.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 18 to 19, 20031 eventThis wildfire became known as the Horn Canyon Fire. The fire consumed 300 acres of pinyon juniper, grass, and oak brush. Ten residences were threatened by the fire.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 18 to 19, 20031 eventLightning was the probable cause of this fire which became know as the Morgan Bottom Fire. The fire occurred on Bureau of Land Management public lands and consumed 211 acres of sage.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 19 to 24, 20031 eventLightning was the probable cause of this wildfire which became known as the JB Fire. The fire occurred on Bureau of Land Management public lands and consumed 1,007 acres of ponderosa pine, sage, oak brush, and grass.
• Heat in California, July 19, 20031 injured · 1 eventA hiker was overcome by heat exhaustion on a Lakeside trail.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 19 to 22, 20031 eventLightning was the probable cause of this wildfire which occurred in the San Juan National Forest. The fire became known as the Devil Creek Fire and consumed 235 acres of mixed conifer forest and oak brush. The estimated cost of fighting the fire was 294 thousand dollars.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, July 19, 20031 eventA fire burned 640 acres of brush and grassland; and abandoned cars, rubbish and other debris; just north of Kealia Road near an old airstrip in northeast Kauai. No homes or other structures were threatened by the fire, and there were no serious injuries.
• Wildfire in California, July 19 to 31, 20031 eventThe Duncan Complex fire was one of a number of lightning initiated fires that was allowed to continue as a resource management fire through the end of the month within Yosemite National Park.
• Wildfire in Wyoming, July 19 to 31, 20031 eventThe Big Spring Wildfire was started by dry lightning and was spread quickly by gusty winds. Eleven residences had to be evacuated. Billy Creek and Muddy Guard Roads were closed as the fire approached. The fire burned 2,780 acres.
• Wildfire in California, July 20 to 21, 20031 eventThe Grapevine Fire fought by Kern County Fire Department burned 1830 acres. The cause and cost are unknown but no structures or lives were lost.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 20 to 24, 20031 eventThis wildfire was likely caused by lightning and became known as the Hamilton Fire. The fire occurred on Bureau of Land Management public lands and consumed 2,064 acres of pinyon pine and juniper. The fire threatened 3 residences.
• Wildfire in Idaho, July 20 to 31, 20031 event1500 acre Crystal Creek wildfire 18 miles north/northwest of Stanley. Burned sub-alpine fur, brush and grass. Cost to suppress 1.5 million dollars. No property damage.
• Heat in California, July 20, 20032 deaths · 1 eventThe truck a man and a woman were riding in became stuck near the Twentynine Palms Air-Ground Combat Center. They tried to walk for help, but were overcome by the heat and died.
• Heat in Oklahoma, July 20, 20031 death · 1 eventTriple digit temperatures occurred across portions of Oklahoma. In Oklahoma City temperatures reached 106 degrees with higher heat indices. There was one heat related death in the city.
• Wildfire in California, July 20 to 31, 20031 eventThe Kibbee Complex Fire was lightning started on July 20th approximately 18 miles northeast of Miwok Village in the NW corner of Yosemite National Park. The fire eventually was managed as a resource burn as it continued into the month of August.
• Wildfire in Idaho, July 21 to 22, 2003$500,000 · 1 event4500 acre Harkness wildfire started started by a transient's campfire. Several buildings destroyed by fire including 2 homes and 8 additional barns or outbuildings and several vehicles and farm equipment also destroyed. Entire Harkness Canyon area evacuated.
• Wildfire in California, July 21 to 22, 20031 eventThe Mercury Fire was fought by the Kern County Fire Department and it burned 300 acres. Its cause was human and no costs are known. There were no structures or lives lost in the fire.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 22 to 23, 20031 eventThis wildfire occurred in Dinosaur National Park and was named the Peterson Fire. The fire burned 115 acres.
• Wildfire in Idaho, July 22, 20032 deaths · 1 eventTwo fire fighters were killed on the Cramer Fire, 17 miles west of Shoup in western Lemhi County. Several days of hot and dry conditions caused the Cramer Fire to expand rapidly.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 22 to 27, 20031 eventLightning was the probable cause of this wildfire which was named the Maverick Fire. The fire occurred on Bureau of Land Management public lands and consumed 1,161 acres of mixed conifer forest, oak brush, and grass.
• Wildfire in Utah, July 22 to 25, 20031 eventThis wildfire became known as the Hammond Fire. The fire occurred in the Manti-LaSal National Forest and consumed 171 acres of mountain brush, juniper, and pinyon pine. The estimated cost to fight the fire was 60 thousand dollars.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, July 22, 20031 eventWhat was to be a controlled burn in the Makua Military Reservation became an out-of-control wildfire that scorched 2500 acres of brush in northwest Oahu. The blaze for a time threatened native plants and animals, and ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 23 to 31, 20031 eventLightning was the probable cause of this wildfire which became known as the Red Rock Fire. The fire occurred on Bureau of Land Management public lands and threatened one residence and one commercial property. The fire consumed 134 acres of pinyon pine and juniper forest.
• Heat in Oklahoma, July 23, 20031 death · 1 eventHot temperatures along with high heat indices caused the death of an 86 year old woman in the town of Harrah.
• Wildfire in California, July 23 to 28, 2003$2.6 million · 1 eventThe Basin Fire was fought by Sequoia National Forest and burned 1002 acres. Its cause was unknown but there were no fatalities. One primary structure was lost in the fire.
• Wildfire in California, July 25 to 28, 20032 injured · $400,000 · 1 eventThe "Canyon Fire" was started by an arsonist. It grew rapidly, consuming 300 acres in the first 15 minutes. It eventually grew to 4300 acres before it was contained. One residence and five out buildings were destroyed. The injuries were from heat exhaustion.
• Wildfire in Utah, July 25 to 28, 20031 eventThis wildfire became known as the Cottonwood Fire. The fire occurred on the Tavaputs Plateau and consumed 300 acres of fir and oak brush.
• Heat in Missouri, July 26 to 27, 20031 death · 5 eventsExcessive heat and humidity covered west central Missouri from July 26th through July 27th. Afternoon heat indices ranged from 103 to 106 degrees. A 53 year old Clay county male died from heat related causes.
• Heat in Kansas, July 26 to 27, 20034 eventsAfternoon heat indices ranged from 103 to 106 degrees, from July 26th through July 27th.
• Wildfire in California, July 26, 20031 eventCalled the "Shooter Fire", it burned 80 acres before being contained.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 27 to 31, 20031 eventThis wildfire occurred in the White River National Forest and was named the Langlas Draw Fire. The fire threatened 15 residences and consumed 720 acres of ponderosa pine, aspen, and oak brush by the end of July.
• Wildfire in California, July 27, 20031 eventTen acres of brush burned before being contained.
• Wildfire in California, July 28 to 31, 20031 eventThe Williams Fire was lightning started in the wee hours of the morning of July 28th and burned through the month of August as a managed resource fire. No injuries were reported but the fire cost was assessed at $22K.
• Wildfire in Oregon, July 28 to 31, 20031 eventThe Frog Hollow fire was started by lightning and burned 752 acres. The cost of fighting this fire totaled 1.5 million dollars.
• Heat in Nevada, July 29, 20031 death · 1 eventA 2-year-old girl was left in the back of a car for two hours and died from extreme heat.
• Wildfire in California, July 30 to 31, 2003$650,000 · 1 eventThe China Fire within Sequoia National Forest burned approximately 819 acres in the Kern River Canyon southwest of Lake Isabella. The fire was lightning caused but no structures or lives were lost.
• Wildfire in California, July 30, 20031 injured · 1 eventA commercial water truck rolled over, starting a five acre brush fire. The driver was burned.
• Wildfire in California, July 31, 20031 eventThe Cooney Fire was ignited by lightning late in the afternoon of the 31st of July and eventually managed as a resource burn by late in August. There were no injuries with this fire and costs were unknown.
• Drought in Iowa, August 1 to 31, 2003$645 million · 51 eventsDry weather settled in over Iowa during the month. The last widespread rain occurred on 09 July. With the increasingly dry conditions became a primary concern as the month progressed.
• Drought in Iowa, August 1 to 31, 2003$312 million · 21 eventsDry conditions that began in September 2002 and continued through 2003, manifested into a moderate to severe drought at the start of August 2003 which is a crucial time for soybean development and corn in filling out the ears with large kernels.
• Drought in Texas, August 1 to 31, 200324 eventsAfter receiving nearly twice the normal monthly rainfall for the month of June, most of the South Plains, extreme southern Texas Panhandle, and Rolling Plains experienced very dry conditions during the months of July and August.
• Drought in Wisconsin, August 1 to 31, 200315 eventsDrought conditions returned to parts of south-central and southeast Wisconsin during the month of August, 2003, The jet stream and associated low pressure systems stayed north of Wisconsin, resulting in few cold front passages.
• Drought in New Mexico, August 1 to 31, 200322 eventsUnusually dry summer weather persisted for most areas throughout the month. The July-August period, despite an increase in showers during late August, was noted as the 4th driest summer rain season on record.
• Drought in Colorado, August 1 to 31, 200321 eventsExtreme drought continued across western Colorado through the month. An area of exceptional drought expanded into southwest Colorado even though monsoon moisture produced scattered rainfall on a number of days across western Colorado.
• Drought in Utah, August 1 to 31, 20037 eventsExtreme to exceptional drought continued across extreme eastern Utah through the month.
• Wildfire in Montana, August 1 to 30, 20035 eventsThe combination of hot and dry conditions along with dry lightning and wind events, led to widespread wildfires in western Montana. 750,000 acres burned in western Montana forests in August with 46 structures lost.
• Wildfire in Wyoming, August 1 to 13, 20031 eventThe Big Spring Wildfire was started by dry lightning and was quickly spread by gusty winds. Eleven residences had to be evacuated, in addition to six others that were protected. Billy Creek and Muddy Guard Roads were closed as the fire approached.
• Wildfire in Colorado, August 1 to 2, 20031 eventThis complex of fires began on July 16 due to an outbreak of lightning in Mesa Verde National Park. The complex consisted of the Mocassin, White, Balcony, and Park fires.
• Wildfire in Colorado, August 1 to 4, 20031 eventThis fire was named the Langlas Draw Fire and began on July 27. The fire occurred in the White River National Forest and consumed 720 acres of ponderosa pine, aspen, and oakbrush. The fire threatened 15 residences. The estimated cost of fighting the fire was 1.9 million dollars.
• Wildfire in California, August 1 to 31, 2003$22,000 · 1 eventThe Williams Fire was lightning started in the wee hours of the morning of July 28th and burned through the month of August as a managed resource fire. No injuries were reported but the fire cost was assessed at $22K. The fire burned 827 acres by the end of August.
• Wildfire in California, August 1 to 31, 2003$20,000 · 1 eventThe Kibbee Complex Fire was lightning started on July 20th approximately 18 miles northeast of Miwok Village in the NW corner of Yosemite National Park. The fire eventually was managed as a resource burn as it continued into the month of August.
• Wildfire in California, August 1 to 27, 20031 eventThe Cooney Fire was ignited by lightning late in the afternoon of the 31st of July and eventually managed as a resource burn. Designated a resource burn by August 27th, it was reported to have burned 1928 acres. There were no injuries with this fire and costs were unknown.
• Wildfire in California, August 1 to 4, 20031 eventThe China Fire started in July and was contained late in the day on August 4th...see July Stormdata.
• Wildfire in California, August 1 to 31, 20031 eventThe Duncan Complex continued to burn through the month as a resource burn within Yosemite National Park.
• Wildfire in Idaho, August 1 to 5, 20031 event1300 acre Crystal Creek fire northwest of Stanley burned sub-alpine fir, brush and grass. No structural damage. 1.5 million dollars to suppress. contained by August 5th.
• Wildfire in Colorado, August 3, 20031 eventA four acre fire near Ute Trail near Waldo Canyon, probably sparked by a lightning strike the day before, was contained by firefighters from six departments and air tankers. Traffic was affected on U.S. highway 24.
• Wildfire in California, August 4, 20031 eventA brush fire closed Highway 79 between School House Road and Morettis.
• Wildfire in Montana, August 4 to 5, 20031 eventA lightning strike to an old cottonwood tree started a fire that burned approximately 60 acres of pasture and an old land fill.
• Wildfire in Colorado, August 5 to 7, 20031 eventThis wildfire was named the Lane Gulch Fire and occurred on Bureau of Land Management public lands. The fire consumed 793 acres of pinyon pine and juniper.
• Wildfire in Montana, August 6 to 24, 2003$1.0 million · 1 eventHobble FireCause: Lightning StrikeBegin Date: August 6, 2003End Date: August 24, 2003Acres Burned: 40,000Structural Loss: 15Cost: 1M
• Wildfire in Colorado, August 6 to 12, 20031 eventThis wildfire was named the Thompson Springs Fire and occurred on Bureau of Land Management public lands. The fire consumed 764 acres of pinyon pine and juniper.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, August 6, 2003$1.2 million · 1 eventAn intentionally set fire burned 420 acres of sugar cane on the property of the Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Company on the island of Maui. Smoke from the blaze forced the police to close a portion of Haleakala Highway from 1420 to 1800, causing a major traffic tie-up.
• Wildfire in Oregon, August 6 to 7, 20031 eventTwelve loads of retardant were dropped on a lightning sparked 400 acre fire.
• Wildfire in Idaho, August 7 to 11, 2003$25,000 · 1 event38,000 acre Deep fire northwest of Dubois in short grass, sagebrush and pockets of timber. Destroyed one outbuilding and cost 1.4 million dollars to suppress. Fire contained by August 11th.
• Wildfire in Idaho, August 8 to 9, 20031 event2600 acre Festival fire northeast of Blackfoot. Burned short grass and scattered brush and juniper. No damage reported.
• Wildfire in Montana, August 10 to 31, 20031 eventRough Draw ComplexCause: Lightning StrikeBegin Date: August 10, 2003End Date: September 5, 2003Acres Burned: 3000Structural Loss: 0
• Wildfire in Wyoming, August 10 to 15, 20031 eventThe Blacktail Wildfire was started by lightning on August 10. On August 11, Gros Ventre Campground had to be evacuated as the fire approached. Smoke impacted air traffic at Jackson Airport and Highway 26/89/191 was temporarily closed on August 12. The fire burned 2,650 acres.
• Wildfire in California, August 10, 20031 eventAfter three days with temperatures near 100 degrees, a brush fire broke out and burned 25 acres before it was brought under control.
• Wildfire in Montana, August 11 to 15, 20031 eventThere were several small wildfires started by lightning throughout the county. The fires burned approximately 600 acres.
• Wildfire in Idaho, August 11, 20031 event4100 acre Timmerman fire north of Shoshone burned grass and sagebrush. No property damage reported.
• Heat in Montana, August 11 to 16, 200316 eventsThe high temperature reached 100 degrees or higher for 6 consecutive days at Glasgow International Airport from August 11th-16th. This breaks the previous record of 5 consecutive days with highs of 100 degrees or higher set back in 1933.
• Wildfire in Idaho, August 11 to 12, 20031 event1500 acre Foothills fire south of Picabo. Burned grass ans sagebrush. No property damage reported.
• Wildfire in Colorado, August 11 to 12, 20031 eventThis fire was named the Little Bucktail Fire and occurred in the Uncompahgre National Forest. The fire consumed 793 acres of timber and brush.
• Wildfire in Wyoming, August 11 to 31, 20031 eventThe East Wildfire, located near the East Entrance of Yellowstone National Park, was started on August 11 by lightning. Thirty-one residences and 43 commercial buildings needed protection as gusty winds caused rapid fire growth. The wildfire burned four private vehicles.
• Wildfire in Montana, August 12 to 24, 2003$200,000 · 1 eventCraig II/Windmill ComplexCause: Lightning StrikeBegin Date: August 12, 2003End Date: August 24, 2003Acres Burned: 9000Structural Loss: 3Cost: 200,000K
• Wildfire in Hawaii, August 12 to 17, 20034 injured · $10,000 · 1 eventA brush fire scorched about 3000 acres on the isle of Molokai, at one time threatening two dozen homes in the town of Hoolehua. The fire, however, did destroy a family's storage shed with its contents.
• Wildfire in California, August 14 to 15, 20031 eventA brush fire burned 22 acres before being fully controlled. About a dozen houses were threatened but no property was damaged.
• Heat in Missouri, August 15 to 21, 20032 deaths · 54 injured · 29 eventsA late summer heat wave hit in mid August, just as many area schools were starting the new school year. As a result, most schools reduced their schedule to a half day while a few closed completely.
• Heat in Illinois, August 15 to 21, 200317 eventsA late summer heat wave hit the area just as most schools were opening. As a result many schools reduced their schedule to a half day while a few closed altogether. High temperatures were in the middle to upper 90s with Quincy hitting 100 on the 21st.
• Wildfire in California, August 15 to 18, 20031 eventNamed the Wildwood Canyon Fire, this wildfire burned 200 acres of state park and national forest land before being fully contained. No property was damaged.
• Wildfire in Colorado, August 15 to 16, 20031 eventThis wildfire was named the Lookout Mountain Fire and occurred in the Book Cliffs on Bureau of Land Management public lands. The fire consumed 100 acres of pinyon pine, juniper, and oakbrush. Structure protection was needed for one residence.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, August 15 to 16, 20031 eventA fire burned between 1000 and 1500 acres of mainly brush vegetation in leeward Oahu. However, some endangered native plants were also believed to have been scorched by the fire, though the dollar cost of damages was unavailable.
• Wildfire in Montana, August 16 to 31, 2003$250,000 · 1 eventCathedral PeakCause: Lightning StrikeBegin Date: August 16, 2003End Date: September 30, 2003Acres Burned: 3000Structural Loss: 1Cost: 250,000K
• Wildfire in Idaho, August 16 to 18, 20031 event10,000 acre Menan fire burned grass ans sagebrush west of Rexburg. Contained by August 18th. No property damage reported.
• Wildfire in Colorado, August 16 to 28, 20031 eventThis wildfire was named the Sawtooth Fire and occurred in the Routt National Forest. The fire consumed 200 acres of primarily bug killed and blown down timber. The fire was in monitor status August 28 with no additional information available.
• Wildfire in Wyoming, August 16 to 31, 20031 eventDry lightning ignited the Blackwater Wildfire on August 16. Ten residential and two commercial buildings needed protection as the wildfire approached. The fire burned 6,805 acres and cost an estimated 1.1 million dollars to fight.
• Wildfire and Dust Devil in Montana, August 16, 20033 injured · $250,000 · 2 eventsCool front passed through western Montana during the afternoon and evening hours with gusty west winds behind the front. A dust devil formed over the Nine Mile fire camp with wind speeds estimated at 40 to 50 mph, which blew over a supply tent.
• Heat in Missouri, August 17 to 23, 20032 deaths · 3 eventsExcessive heat caused two Jackson county female residents, aged 85 and 88 to pass away.
• Heat in Kansas, August 17 to 23, 20033 eventsHigh temperatures and humidities caused heat indices to reach the 105 to 110 degree range.
• Wildfire in California, August 17, 20031 eventA brush fire burned five acres before being fully controlled.
• Wildfire in Montana, August 18 to 19, 20031 eventThere were several small wildfires in Prarie County. Approximately 1000 acres burned.
• Wildfire in California, August 18 to 20, 20033 injured · $1.3 million · 1 eventNamed the Locust Fire, this wildfire consumed 1889 acres between north Moreno Valley and Redlands before being fully contained. Several homes were threatened and evacuations were ordered. A hiker suffered burns, when he jumped through the fire front.
• Wildfire in California, August 18, 20031 eventNamed the Nason fire, it burned 35 acres along a hillside before being fully controlled.
• Wildfire in Wyoming, August 18 to 31, 20031 eventThe Boulder Basin Wildfire was ignited on August 18 by lightning. A cold front moved through the area on August 21 bringing gusty winds that caused the fire to spread from 20 acres to 6000 acres within a day.
• Wildfire in Montana, August 19 to 26, 20031 eventLittle HawkCause: Lightning StrikeBegin Date: August 19, 2003End Date: August 26, 2003Acres Burned: 5000Structural Loss: 0
• Wildfire in Oregon, August 19 to 30, 20031 eventThe Lightning Complex Fire was a lightning sparked fire which burned 16,028 acres, destroying one structure. The fire burned shrubs, grass, and timber. The cost of fighting the fire topped 1.1 million dollars.
• Wildfire in Oregon, August 19 to 31, 20031 eventThe Booth and Bear Butte Fires burned a total of 91,000 acres. The cause of the fire was determined to be prior lightning strikes which created some hot spots that later flared up into a wildfire.
• Wildfire in Louisiana, August 19, 20031 eventLightnign sparked five wildfires in Sabine National Wildlife Refuge, which burned around 12,000 acres. No injuries or damage to structures were reported.
• Wildfire and Damaging Winds in Montana, August 19, 2003$25,000 · 62 kt wind · 4 eventsA line of thunderstorms moved across west central Montana during the evening hours, producing widespread outflow winds of 45 to 50 mph, with localized damaging winds of 60 to 70 mph.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, August 19 to 21, 20031 eventA fire blackened 155 acres of brush on the Mokuleia side of Kaena Point on Oahu, and endangered five types of native Hawaiian plants.
• Wildfire in California, August 20, 2003$20,000 · 1 eventNamed the Mormon Rocks Fire, it burned 10 acres and caused Highway 138 to be closed for about one hour. Property damage was confined to a power line.
• Wildfire in Montana, August 20 to 31, 20031 eventA lightning caused wildfire started north of West Yellowstone on the 20th of August. This wildfire was named the Rathbone Fire. 2000 acres burned by the end of August. No structural losses or injuries were reported.
• Heat in Illinois, August 21, 20031 eventHigh temperatures reached the middle to upper 90s during the afternoon hours of August 21st. Heat indices ranged from 105 to 110 degrees. Northerly Island and Midway Airport reached 97 degrees while Ohare Airport reached 95 degrees.
• Wildfire in California, August 21 to 31, 2003$2,000 · 1 eventThe West Kern Fire was lightning-ignited during the afternoon of the 21st. It reached a size of 120 acres by the end of the month but it was managed as a resource burn. There were no injuries as the result of this fire.
• Wildfire in Texas, August 21, 20031 eventLightning sparked wildfires in the marshes of Jefferson County, destroying 5,700 acres. No injuries or damages to property wre reported.
• Wildfire in Oklahoma, August 22 to 24, 20031 eventDry conditions and lightning combined to cause a fire at the Sandy Sanders Wildlife Management area in western Greer County. It was estimated that 500 acres of grasslands at the wildlife area burned before the fire was completely suppressed.
• Wildfire in Montana, August 23 to 24, 20031 eventA wildfire believed to have been started by a combine striking a rock during dry conditions burned approximately 7000 acres.
• Wildfire in South Dakota, August 23, 20031 eventDry conditions and strong winds allowed a previously extinguished fire to re-emerge in a hayfield and spread southeast. At one point the fire spread to four miles wide. The fire consumed 2000 acres of pastureland, two barns, an abandoned house, and 1800 hay bales.
• Wildfire in California, August 23, 20031 eventThis brush fire consumed 35 acres before being fully controlled.
• Wildfire in California, August 23 to 24, 20031 eventNamed the Lake Mathews fire, it burned 200 acres before being fully contained. About 100 homes were threatened, but no property was damaged.
• Wildfire in California, August 23 to 24, 20031 eventThis brush fire began near Glen Helen Parkway and spread north under the influence of 8-12 mph winds, however relative humidities were between 30-45 percent which helped slow the growth. total acres consumed were 40 before it was brought under control.
• Heat in Illinois, August 24 to 28, 20031 death · 17 eventsAfter a brief cool down in which high temperatures dropped into the middle 80's to around 90 degrees, the heat returned to the area with highs pushing into the middle 90's to around 100 degrees. Heat indices were again in the 105 to 110 degree range.
• Heat in Missouri, August 24 to 28, 200329 eventsAfter a short break in the heat in which temperatures dropped into the middle 80's to around 90 degrees, the heat returned to the area. High temperatures were back in the middle 90s to around 100 with head indices ranging from 105 to 110 degrees.
• Heat in Missouri, August 24 to 28, 20033 eventsHigh temperatures and humidities made heat indices into the 105 degree range through this period.
• Heat in Kansas, August 24 to 28, 20033 eventsHigh temperatures and humidities caused heat indices to reach the 105 degree range.
• Wildfire in Washington, August 25 to 31, 20031 eventThe Square Lake Fire was a lightning sparked fire which burned 1,097 acres. The fire was contained on September 30th.
• Heat in Illinois, August 25 to 26, 20032 deaths · 1 eventHigh temperatures reached the lower to middle 90s on August 25th and 26th with heat indices in the middle to upper 90s. One person died of a heat stroke in Skokie and another person died of heat stress in Chicago.
• Wildfire in Colorado, August 25, 20031 eventA 4000 acre grass fire, started by lightning, burned for nearly 7 hours before being extinguished by several rural fire departments from both Prowers and Baca county.
• Wildfire in California, August 25 to 31, 20034 injured · 1 eventLightning started a wildfire in the Mt. Diablo Range between Gilroy and Brentwood that raged through the end of the month and into September. Four injuries were reported and a total of 30,180 acres were burned. One outbuilding was destroyed.
• Heat in Kentucky, August 26 to 27, 20032 injured · 22 eventsSummer heat and humidity resulted in at least a couple cases of heat exhaustion. Afternoon high temperatures reached the mid 90's with peak heat indices near 105 degrees.
• Wildfire in California, August 26 to 27, 20031 eventThe Mariposa Lightning Series of fires were battled by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection starting on the 26th and contained by the afternoon of the 27th.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, August 27, 20031 eventA brushfire burned between 50 and 100 acres of grass and kiawe trees on the east side of Koko Head Crater, with flames occasionally reaching the top of the crater.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, August 27, 20031 eventA brush fire burned around 70 acres near Bellows Air Force Station in windward Oahu. The fire threatened several homes in the Keolu Hills subdivision for a time, and fire officials evacuated those residents nearest the fire because of heavy smoke.
• Wildfire in California, August 27, 20031 eventA brush fire burned 55 acres before being fully contained. A Day Care center was evacuated, several streets were closed, and an Industrial Park was threatened. However no property was damaged.
• Wildfire in Montana, August 27 to 30, 20031 eventA wildfire that began from an unknown cause burned approximately 3000 acres.
• Wildfire and Lightning Strike in California, August 28, 2003$40,000 · 2 eventsA brush fire consumed 7 acres in the area adjacent to the Oak Ridge Estates. No homes or structures were lost and no one was injured. Lightning caused phone and power outages in the Big Bear Lake area earlier this day, and may have been the cause of this fire.
• Drought in Kansas, August 28, 2003$20 million · 27 eventsA two to three year drought plagued most of the area. Some rainfall deficits were as high as 20 inches over a 28 month long period. Record low river and stream levels were noted across much of the area.
• Drought in Texas, September 1 to 30, 200324 eventsThe long-term drought that redeveloped across the South Plains, extreme southern Panhandle, and Rolling Plains in July continued through September.
• Drought in Wisconsin, September 1 to 30, 200320 eventsDrought conditions continued from August, 2003, through September 2003, across south-central and southeast Wisconsin. Much of this area was in a severe drought (D2) status during the first part of the month, however, beneficial rains fell during the period of September 12-14.
• Wildfire in Montana, September 1 to 30, 2003$250,000 · 1 eventCathedral PeakCause: Lightning StrikeBegin Date: August 16, 2003End Date: September 30, 2003Acres Burned: 3000Structural Loss: 1Cost: 250,000K
• Drought in Colorado, September 1, 200321 eventsPrecipitation across western Colorado during the first half of the month resulted in some drought relief across southwest Colorado and portions of northwest Colorado. However, severe to extreme drought conditions continued through the month across western Colorado.
• Drought in Utah, September 1 to 30, 20037 eventsPrecipitation during the first half of the month brought minor drought relief to the extreme southeast portion of Utah. However, extreme to exceptional drought conditions continued across eastern Utah through the month.
• Wildfire in Montana, September 1 to 5, 20031 eventRough Draw ComplexCause: Lightning StrikeBegin Date: August 10, 2003End Date: September 5, 2003Acres Burned: 3000Structural Loss: 0
• Wildfire in Montana, September 1 to 15, 20031 eventA lightning caused wildfire started north of West Yellowstone on the 20th of August. This wildfire was named the Rathbone Fire. 2000 acres burned by the end of August, and an additional 1000 acres burned in September. No structural losses or injuries were reported.
• Wildfire in Wyoming, September 1 to 13, 20031 eventThe East Wildfire continued to burn into early September. The fire burned a total of 23,500 acres in August and September. The total estimated cost of fighting the fire was 6.9 million dollars.
• Wildfire in Wyoming, September 1 to 4, 20031 eventThe Boulder Basin Wildfire continued to burn into early September. The fire burned a total of 11,553 acres in August and September. The estimated total cost of fighting the fire was 1.9 million dollars.
• Wildfire in Wyoming, September 1 to 6, 20031 eventThe Blackwater Wildfire continued to burn into early September. A total of 6,805 acres were burned. The estimated cost of fighting the fire was 1.2 million dollars.
• Wildfire in Oregon, September 1 to 17, 20031 eventThe Booth and Bear Butte Fires began on August 19th and burned a total of 91,000 acres. The cause of the fire was determined to be prior lightning strikes which created hot spots that later flared up into a wildfire.
• Wildfire in Washington, September 1 to 30, 20031 eventThe Square Lake Fire began on August 25th, and burned a total of 1,097 acres. The fire was a lightning sparked fire, and became completely contained on September 30th.
• Wildfire in Idaho, September 1 to 3, 20031 event4400 acre fire burned timber, downed fuels and grass. No structural damage reported. Cost to suppress estimated at 600,000 dollars.
• Wildfire in California, September 1 to 30, 20031 eventThe Kibbee Complex fire, having started July 20th by lightning, burned through the month of September as a resource burn. By the end of the month it had reached 9,230 acres and had an accumulated cost of $2M.
• Wildfire in California, September 1 to 30, 20031 eventThe Kaweah-Kern Complex of fires were essentially started July 28th and allowed to continue to burn as resource fires through the month of September.
• Wildfire in California, September 1 to 30, 20031 eventThe Duncan Complex Fire was ignited by lightning in July, and allowed to continue to burn through September as a resource burn. By the end of September it had consumed 1284 acres at an accumulated cost of $100K.
• Wildfire in Oregon, September 2 to 3, 20031 eventThe Herman Creek Fire burned 470 acres in and around Cascade Locks. Three structures (none inhabited) burned. About 200 homes were evacuated. No injuries were reported.
• Wildfire in California, September 2, 20031 eventA brush fire burned 10 acres in the northern edge of Moreno Valley before being fully contained. Several residences were threatened but no property damage or injuries occurred.
• Wildfire in California, September 3 to 30, 2003$64,000 · 1 eventThe Cargyle Complex Fire was ignited by lightning on the 3rd and allowed to burn through the month for resource benefits. By the end of the month it had burned 717 acres at a cost of $64K.
• Wildfire in California, September 3 to 30, 20033 eventsLightning sparked numerous fire across Humboldt, Trinity, and Mendocino Counties. The fires grew rapidly in the dry, windy conditions. Over 50 total fires were ignited. By September 30, approximately 26,000 acres were burned.
• Wildfire in California, September 3, 2003$50,000 · 1 eventA brush fire burned power lines and self-storage units along Highway 91just north of Central Avenue.
• Wildfire in California, September 3, 20031 eventA brush fire burned 40 acres at Camp Pendleton. No structures were threatened and no injuries were reported.
• Wildfire in California, September 3 to 30, 20031 eventThe Albanita/Hooker Fire in Sequoia National Forest was lightning ignited on the 3rd. It burned 175 acres by the 30th as it was allowed to burn for resource benefits. No injuries were reported nor was any structure lost.
• Wildfire in California, September 5 to 30, 2003$824,000 · 1 eventHomers Nose 2 Fire in the Sequoia-Kings Canyon Park was lightning ignited on the 5th and allowed to burn throughout the month. As of the 30th, it had consumed 230 acres at a cost of $824K with no fatalities or injuries nor structures lost.
• Wildfire in Oregon, September 5 to 12, 20031 eventThe Bull Springs 2 Fire was a lightning sparked fire which burned 1,266 acres. The estimated cost of containing the blaze was $1,422,000.
• Wildfire in California, September 5 to 10, 20039 injured · $200,000 · 1 eventNamed the Bridge fire, it burned 1352 acres before being fully contained. It forced the evacuation of the towns of Fredalba, Smiley Park, Nob Hill, Enchanted Forest, and part of Running Springs, affecting more than 1000 residents.
• Wildfire in Oregon, September 12 to 14, 20033 eventsA Red Flag Warning was issued effective at the above times for fire weather zones 618/619, which includes nearly all of Curry county, a small part of southern Coos county, and a small part of western Josephine county. Strong offshore winds were expected.
• Wildfire in California, September 12 to 14, 20031 eventA Red Flag Warning was issued effective at the above times for fire weather zones 280, which includes western Siskiyou county.Strong offshore winds were expected.
• Wildfire in California, September 12 to 13, 20031 eventA brush fire consumed 175 acres before being controlled. No homes or structures were endangered and no injuries were reported.
• Wildfire in Idaho, September 13 to 15, 20031 event2600 SID fire east of Dietrich. Burned grass and sage. No structural damage.
• Wildfire in California, September 15 to 17, 2003$461,000 · 1 eventThe Michael Fire had an unknown ignition near Chimney Peak in southeast Tulare County. It consumed 388 acres at a cost of $460K. No fatalities occurred nor were structures lost.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, September 16 to 19, 20031 eventA controlled burn by the Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Company got out of hand near Waikapu on Maui when the wind carried some of the flames into nearby mountainous terrain.
• Wildfire in California, September 17, 20031 eventA brush fire consumed 40 acres and briefly threatened several homes in the Oak Hills subdivision of Hesperia. Lack of winds helped firefighters contain the blaze in a short period of time.
• Wildfire in Oregon, September 21 to 23, 20033 eventsA Red Flag Warning effective at the above listed time was issued for an offshore wind event with poor overnight RH recoveries for Fire Weather zones 618/619/Western 620.
• Wildfire in California, September 21 to 23, 20031 eventA Red Flag Warning was issued effective at the above times for Fire Weather zone 280, which covers Western Siskiyou county. This warning verified at several RAWS stations in the area, including Slater Butte, Blue Ridge, and Collins Baldy.
• Wildfire in Idaho, September 21 to 23, 20031 event1000 acre Gannett fire burned sage and grass. No structural damage.
• Wildfire in California, September 23, 20031 eventA brush fire, combined with east winds gusting bear 30 mph, burned 110 acres in a dry wash. Homes were threatened along Elm Avenue near Oak Valley Parkway and in Three Rings Ranch Project.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, September 23 to 24, 20031 eventA fire scorched about 1100 acres of old sugar cane and pineapple fields near Waialua on Oahu. Several homes near the blaze had to be evacuated as a precaution, as flames came within 20 feet of three residences in Poamoho Estates and within 100 yards of homes along Hukilau Loop.
• Wildfire in Washington, September 24 to 30, 20031 eventThe Crystal Creek Fire was a lightning sparked fire which burned 1,584 acres. The fire became completely contained on October 14th.
• Wildfire in Oregon, September 25 to 26, 20031 eventA Red Flag Warning was issued effective at the above times for fire weather zone 618, which covers the Curry county coast. This warning was for an expected offshore wind event with poor RH recoveries.
• Wildfire in Oregon, September 26 to 27, 20034 eventsA Red Flag Warning, effective at the above times, was issued for the ridges of Fire Weather zones 620/621/623.
• Wildfire in Idaho, September 28 to 29, 20031 event400 acre East fork fire burned grass, sage and cottonwoods. No structural damage reported.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, September 30, 20031 eventA brush fire scorched about 200 acres in the Kalapana area of the Big Island of Hawaii. The fire threatened several homes in the Black Sands Beach subdivision, but firefighters were able to prevent the flames from doing damage to any structures.
• Drought in Texas, October 1 to 31, 200324 eventsThe long-term drought remained in place across the South Plains, extreme southern Texas Panhandle, and Rolling Plains through October.
• Drought in Wisconsin, October 1 to 31, 200320 eventsDrought conditions, which started in August, 2003, continued through the month of October 2003, across south-central and southeast Wisconsin. The entire area was in a moderate (D1) to severe drought (D2) status during the month of October.
• Drought in Colorado, October 1 to 31, 200321 eventsIn general, the month of October consisted of above normal temperatures and below normal precipitation across western Colorado. This brought no relief to the severe to extreme drought conditions across the area.
• Drought in Utah, October 1 to 31, 20037 eventsIn general, the month of October consisted of above normal temperatures and below normal precipitation across extreme eastern Utah. This brought no relief to the extreme to exceptional drought conditions across the area.
• Wildfire in California, October 1 to 2, 2003$2.9 million · 1 eventThe Kibbee Complex Fire was allowed to burn for resource management since its ignition on July 20th. It burned a total of 10,100 acres with a final assessed cost of $2.9M.
• Wildfire in California, October 1 to 31, 2003$1.5 million · 1 eventThe Paradise 2 Fire was lightning ignited at 2300 PST on September 25th and had previously been reported as part of the Kaweah-Kern Complex in September Stormdata. By the end of October this specific fire had consumed 1,298 acres at a cost of $1.54M.
• Wildfire in California, October 1 to 31, 2003$807,000 · 1 eventThe Kaweah-Kern Complex of fires was lightning ignited late in July (includes the Williams, West Kern, Giant, Slide Bluffs, Bubbs, West Clover, High Bridge, East Fork, West Timber, Tar Gap 1 and Gap 2, Fry Pan, Soda Springs, and Homers Nose Fires ...
• Wildfire in California, October 1 to 31, 2003$150,000 · 1 eventThe Albanita/Hooker Fire in the Sequoia National Forest was lightning ignited on September 3rd and then allowed to burn for resource management benefits. It consumed 4,483 acres by the end of October at an estimated cost of $150K.
• Wildfire in California, October 1 to 3, 2003$100,000 · 1 eventThe Duncan Fire was ignited by lightning on July 19th and then allowed to burn for resource management purposes into October. It consumed 1,284 acres by October 3rd at a cost of $100K. No fatalities or injuries were reported.
• Wildfire in California, October 1 to 3, 2003$68,000 · 1 eventThe Cargyle Complex Fire in the high country of the Southern Sierra Nevada in Madera County was lightning ignited on the 3rd of September. It was allowed to burn past containment of 720 acres on the 3rd of October for resource management purposes.
• Heat in California, October 1 to 29, 20035 eventsNot only remaining dry but for almost the entire month of October temperatures generally were above normal for Interior Central California.
• Wildfire in Washington, October 1 to 14, 20031 eventThe Crystal Creek Fire burned 1,584 acres. The fire was originally started by lightning on September 24th.
• Wildfire in California, October 1 to 5, 20031 injured · 1 eventNamed the Lytle Fire, this fire started at the end of the paved road next to an old shooting range. It burned 889 acres before being fully contained. No structures were threatened or lost. One fire fighter sustained a minor injury. Fire fighting costs were $620,000.
• Wildfire in California, October 1, 20031 eventA wildfire in the Mojave River bed consumed 10 acres of brush before being contained.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, October 4 to 5, 20031 eventA controlled cane fire jumped to nearby brush and eventually blackened 300 acres south of Puunene, 1 mile above the heliport near Mokulele Highway, on the island of Maui. The fire, however, did not force any evacuations or cause any serious injuries or property damage.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, October 5, 20031 eventA fire that began along the Hana Highway near Maliko Gulch burned 60 acres of brush on the island of Maui. For a time the blaze threatened homes near the intersection of Hana Highway and Apuwai Street.
• Wildfire in California, October 12 to 15, 20031 eventA Red Flag Warning was issued at 1508 PDT on 10/12 and expired at 0730 PDT on 10/13 for expected dry and windy conditions in California fire weather zone 280 (western Siskiyou county).
• Wildfire in Hawaii, October 14 to 15, 20031 eventA fire scorched 400 acres of pasture land and brush south of Pukalani just off Kula Highway near Omaopio Road on the island of Maui.
• Wildfire in Minnesota, October 19, 2003$20,000 · 1 eventA wildfire burned 300 acres of grassland and also burned some small sheds. The fire came close to five homesteads, burning to less than 20 yards from two of them. One home had smoke damage from the fire.
• Wildfire in California, October 21 to 29, 20031 eventNamed the Roblar 2 Fire, this fire was started by live ammunition training on the Camp Pendleton Marine Corps Base, and burned 8,592 acres before it was contained. The community of De Luz was evacuated as the fire jumped the permanent Roblar Fuel Firebreak.
• Wildfire in California, October 21 to 31, 20031 eventThe Padua Fire, aided by gusty Santa Ana winds, burned thousands of acres in Los Angeles County. As of the end of the month, the fire had yet to be fully contained. The fire had burned over 8,000 acres by the end of October.
• Wildfire in California, October 21 to 31, 200335 injured · $50 million · 1 eventNamed the Grand Prix Fire, this fire was started by arsonist on October 21, 2003. It burned 59,448 acres before being fully contained on November 5, 2003.
• Wildfire in California, October 21 to 24, 2003$2.5 million · 1 eventNamed the Pass Fire, this fire was started by an arsonist. It burned 2387 acres and destroyed 5 houses, 1 barn, 21 out buildings, and several vehicles. An additional 3 houses were damaged before the fire was fully controlled.
• Wildfire in California, October 23 to 31, 20031 eventThe Piru Fire, aided by gusty Santa Ana winds, burned thousands of acres in Ventura county. As of the end of October, the fire had yet to be fully contained. The fire burned over 60,000 acres of forest in Ventura County by the end of the month and destroyed one residence.
• Wildfire in Oregon, October 24 to 27, 20035 eventsA Red Flag Warning was issued for Oregon fire weather zones 619/620/621/622 effective at the above times. Fire weather zone 618 was added at 0950 PST on 10/25 and southern zone 623 was added at 1430 PST on 10/26.
• Wildfire in California, October 24 to 27, 20031 eventA Red Flag Warning was issued for expected dry and windy conditions in California fire weather zone 280 (western Siskiyou county) effective at the above times. This warning easily met criteria at the Slater Butte RAWS site.
• Wildfire in California, October 24 to 28, 20031 eventThe Verdale Fire, aided by gusty Santa Ana winds, burned 8,680 acres of land in the northwest portion of Los Angeles County. Fortunately, the fire did not destroy any residences or caused any injuries or deaths.
• Heat in Alabama, October 24, 20031 eventThe high temperature of 85 degrees recorded at the Tuscaloosa airport set a new record high for this date breaking the old record of 82 degrees set in 2000 and in previous years.
• Wildfire in California, October 25 to 31, 20034 deaths · 5 injured · $696 million · 1 eventNamed the Old Fire, this fire was started by an arsonist on October 25. It consumed 91,200 acres before it was fully contained on November 5, 2003.
• Wildfire in California, October 25 to 31, 20031 eventThe Simi Fire, aided by gusty Santa Ana winds, burned thousands of acres in Ventura County. As of the end of the month, the fire had yet to be fully contained. The fire had burned over 100,000 acres by the end of October and numerous residences.
• Wildfire in California, October 25 to 31, 200314 deaths · 90 injured · $1.0 billion · 1 eventNamed the Cedar Fire, this fire was started around sunset on October 25 by a lost hunter. Wind gusts from the northeast over 30 mph began within 2 hours of the fire's start.
• Wildfire in California, October 26 to 31, 20032 deaths · 18 injured · $77 million · 1 eventNamed the Paradise Fire, this fire was started by an arsonist on October 26, 2003. In October it consumed 56,000 acres, and destroyed 348 structures, 342 vehicles, and several miles of utility lines and highway infrastructure.
• Wildfire in California, October 26 to 31, 20037 injured · $6.0 million · 1 eventNamed the Mountain Fire, this fire began on October 26. It consumed 10,331 acres, and destroyed 21 houses and 40 outbuildings, and damaged another 3 residences before it was fully contained on November 2, 2003. Schools were closed in Hemet.
• Wildfire in California, October 26 to 30, 20031 injured · $500,000 · 1 eventNamed the Otay-Mine-Dulzura Fire, this fire consumed 46,291 acres and destroyed 1 house and 5 accessory buildings. It also damaged another 11 structures. Atmospheric conditions were favorable for rapid fire growth preceding and during the first three days of the fire.
• Wildfire in California, October 26 to 27, 20031 eventNamed the Wellman Fire, this fire consumed 1000 acres before being fully contained. No structures were threatened and no injuries were reported. High temperatures in the upper 90s, and relative humidity below 10 percent were present on the day of and the preceding days.
• Drought in Kansas, October 28, 200321 eventsAn on-going drought that was in its third year continued across most of the area. The state of Kansas declared drought disaster areas with an estimated cost of $275 million for this growing season alone.
• Wildfire in Washington, October 28, 20031 eventSparks from a power line ignited a fire which grew to 400 acres. Strong winds contributed to the growth of the fire.
• Wildfire in Washington, October 28, 20031 eventStrong winds contributed to the growth of a 150 acre fire along Indian Church Road south of Granger, which threatened several homes. Fire crews were able to save the homes from fire damage. The fire was ignited by sparks from a prior burn that wasn't fully extinguished.
• Wildfire in Oregon, October 28, 2003$240,000 · 1 eventHigh winds in the Echo area contributed to a wildfire which ignited a haystack, consisting of 2,000 tons of alfalfa. Two flatbed truck trailers were also destroyed by the flames. The fire was caused by a controlled burn earlier in the day next to an irrigation ditch.
• Drought in Texas, November 1 to 30, 200324 eventsThe long-term drought persisted across the South Plains, extreme southern Texas Panhandle, and Rolling Plains through November.
• Drought in Wisconsin, November 1 to 30, 200320 eventsDrought conditions, which started in August, 2003, continued through the month of November, 2003, across south-central and southeast Wisconsin.
• Drought in Colorado, November 1 to 30, 200321 eventsA major change in the weather pattern brought much cooler and damper conditions to western Colorado compared to the previous month.
• Drought in Utah, November 1 to 30, 20037 eventsA major change in the weather pattern brought much cooler and damper conditions to extreme eastern Utah compared to the previous month. A number of storm systems brought significant precipitation to the mountains while light precipitation occurred in the lower valleys.
• Wildfire in California, November 1 to 5, 20032 deaths · 7 injured · $279 million · 1 eventThe Old Fire, which began on October 25, was not fully contained until November 5. During the first few days of November, another 2 deaths and 7 injuries occurred and 143 structures were lost.
• Wildfire in California, November 1 to 16, 200323 injured · $17 million · 1 eventThe Cedar Fire, which began on October 25, was not fully contained until November 16.
• Wildfire in California, November 1 to 15, 20036 injured · $22 million · 1 eventThe Paradise Fire, which began on October 26, was not fully contained until November 15, 2003 During the first few days of November, another 700 acres was consumed, 67 structures and 75 vehicles destroyed, 6 injuries occurred, and additional damage occurred to 15 structures, 10…
• Wildfire in California, November 1, 20031 eventThe Piru Fire, which burned 63,991 acres of land in the mountains just north of Piru, was finally fully contained.
• Wildfire in California, November 1, 20031 eventThe Simi Fire, which burned 108,204 acres of land north of Simi Valley, was finally fully contained.
• Wildfire in California, November 1, 20031 eventThe Padua Fire, which burned 10.446 acres in the Angeles National Forest, was finally fully contained.
• Wildfire in California, November 1 to 5, 20031 eventThe Grand Prix Fire, which began on October 21, 2003, was not fully contained until November 5. Though it was still active until November 13, no additional damage, injuries, or fatalities occurred after October 31.
• Wildfire in California, November 1 to 2, 20031 eventThe Mountain Fire, which began on October 26, was not fully contained until November 2. No additional acreage was reported burned or structures damaged nor injuries in November. The total cost of fighting the fire was estimated at $1.8 million.
• Wildfire in California, November 1 to 8, 20031 eventThe Kaweah-Kern Complex of fires was lightning ignited late in July (includes the Williams, West Kern, Giant, Slide Bluffs, Bubbs, West Clover, High Bridge, East Fork, West Timber, Tar Gap 1 and Gap 2, Fry Pan, Soda Springs, and Homers Nose Fires).
• Wildfire in California, November 1 to 8, 20031 eventThe Albanita/Hooker Fire was ignited September 3rd by lightning and allowed to burn as resource management burn until closed on the 8th of November. Its total cost was $150K and it consumed 4483 acres in the Sequoia National Forest.
• Wildfire in California, November 1 to 8, 20031 eventThe Paradise 2 Fire was lightning ignited at 2300 PST on September 25th and had previously been reported as part of the Kaweah-Kern Complex in September Stormdata.
• Heat in Alabama, November 2, 20031 eventThe afternoon high recorded at the Birmingham International Airport was 85 degrees. This temperature established a new record high. NWS Observation
• Wildfire in Hawaii, November 2 to 3, 20031 eventA brush fire, of an unknown but suspicious origin, burned 100 acres of mainly trees and grass near Koko Crater at the Koko Head District Park.
• Heat in Alabama, November 3, 20031 eventThe afternoon high temperature measured at the Anniston Municipal Airport was 84 degrees. This temperature tied the previously established record high. NWS Observation
• Heat in Alabama, November 3, 20031 eventThe daytime high temperature at the Birmingham International Airport was 84 degrees. This temperature tied the record high. NWS Observation
• Heat in Alabama, November 3, 20031 eventThe afternoon high measured at Dannelly Field was 85 degrees. This tied the previous record high. NWS Observation
• Heat in Alabama, November 4, 20031 eventThe high temperature measured at the Tuscaloosa Municipal Airport was 86 degrees. This temperature established a new record high. NWS Observation
• Heat in Alabama, November 4, 20031 eventThe afternoon high recorded at Dannelly Field was 86 degrees. This temperature established a new record high. NWS Observation
• Heat in Alabama, November 5, 20031 eventThe afternoon high temperature rose to 85 degrees at the Tuscaloosa Municipal Airport. This temperature set a new record high. NWS Observation
• Heat in Alabama, November 5, 20031 eventThe afternoon high temperature measured at the Birmingham International Airport was 83 degrees. This temperature established a new record high. NWS Observation
• Wildfire in Oregon, November 11, 2003$16,000 · 1 eventSustained winds between 20 and 30 MPH blew a controlled burn just outside of Hermiston out of control. A tractor along with four tons of hay were destroyed in the blaze.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, November 18 to 20, 2003$15,000 · 1 eventA brush fire blackened 300 acres of native plants and trees in leeward Kohala on the Big Island of Hawaii. The fire began when a worker for Forest Solutions, Inc., accidently set dry grass on fire while using a torch to heat irrigation pipe joints.
• Drought in Texas, December 1 to 31, 2003$240 million · 24 eventsThe long-term drought persisted across the South Plains, extreme southern Texas Panhandle, and Rolling Plains through December.
• Drought in Wisconsin, December 1 to 9, 200320 eventsThanks to 1.5 to almost 2.5 inches of precipitation that fell on Dec 9th and 10, long-term drought conditions ended across south-central and southeast Wisconsin. The precipitation started as rain but switched over to snow on the 10th from west to east.
• Drought in Colorado, December 1 to 31, 200321 eventsA number of winter storms impacted western Colorado resulting in above normal snowpack across all basins by the end of December. The effects of the heavy snowpack were difficult to characterize.
• Drought in Utah, December 1 to 31, 20037 eventsA number of winter storms impacted extreme eastern Utah resulting in near normal snowpack by the end of December. One month of near normal snowpack by itself will have little effect on moisture deficits that have accumulated over such a protracted period of time.

Every billion-dollar disasterEvery storm of 2003Tornadoes in 2003

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.