Western Wildfires

Losses, 2024 dollars

$12 billion

Losses at the time

$10 billion

Deaths

8

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

• Wildfire in California, May 30 to 31, 20211 eventAfter a second consecutive below normal winter for precipitation, fuels were nearing record dry levels across the Greater Bay Area.
• Wildfire and Heat in California, June 1 to 5, 20215 eventsAn upper-level ridge centered over the western United States led to excessive heat across the High Deserts and the lower deserts of Southern California from June 1 to June 5.
• Wildfire in Oregon, June 1 to 6, 20211 eventThe Sycan River Wildfire was first reported around 1430 PDT on 05/30/2021. The cause was under investigation. As of the last report at 0630 PDT on 06/03/21, the fire covered 679 acres and was 100 percent contained. 1.0 million dollars had been spent on firefighting efforts.
• Wildfire in Florida, June 1 to 5, 20211 eventDry conditions across South Florida allowed a wildfire to burn in Miami-Dade County for several days (fire ignited in May). The fire ignited near a densely populated area, but thankfully no injuries or damage was reported.
• Wildfire in Oregon, June 1 to 6, 20211 eventThe Mehl wildfire was reported burning in logging slash on the evening of 06/01/2021. As of the last report at 0630 PDT on 06/06/21, the fire covered 110 acres and was 10 percent contained. 120000 dollars had been spent on firefighting efforts.
• Wildfire in Arizona, June 4 to 30, 2021$8.0 million · 1 eventPersistent extreme to exceptional drought conditions across much of the state combined with increasing heat going into the summer months promoted a favorable environment for wildfires.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, June 4 to 7, 20211 eventA fire blackened about 1400 acres of dry brush in the Hamakua District on the Big Island of Hawaii, near Paauilo. The blaze forced the closure of Highway 19 between mile markers 34 and 36 for a time, but no residents needed to evacuate the area.
• Wildfire in Colorado, June 5 to 8, 20211 eventA lightning strike most likely ignited a wildfire 4 miles south of Akin.
• Wildfire in California, June 5 to 9, 20212 eventsAn upper-level low pressure system off the southwest coast of California allowed for the deepening of the marine layer on June 7. Drizzle and light rain were reported mainly across Orange County and northern portions of coastal San Diego County.
• Wildfire in Colorado, June 8 to 12, 20211 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 13 miles south of Rangely.
• Wildfire in Idaho, June 8 to 12, 20211 eventA wildfire south of Oakley and Goose Creek Reservoir grew rapidly to 578 acres before being controlled.
• Wildfire in Utah, June 9 to 30, 20211 eventAn abandoned campfire started a wildfire 14 miles southeast of Moab.
• Wildfire in Arizona, June 9 to 16, 20211 eventThe human caused Shamrock Fire started June 9, five miles north of the International Border in the Patagonia Mountains of Santa Cruz County. The wildfire grew quickly in hot and dry conditions, but was contained June 16 after consuming 1104 acres.
• Wildfire in Arizona, June 10 to 25, 20212 eventsThe human caused Pinnacle Fire started June 10 on Pinnacle Ridge in the Santa Teresa Wilderness of western Graham County. The fire grew to over 15,000 acres within a week in hot, dry and windy conditions and to 34,417 acres by June 25.
• Wildfire in Montana, June 13 to 30, 20211 eventA human-caused wildfire started on the afternoon of June 13th. Hot, dry, and windy conditions resulted in the fire to spread rapidly over the next 24 to 48 hours. The fire burned through the remainder of the month and into July.
• Wildfire in Montana, June 14 to 24, 20215 injured · 1 eventThe Deep Creek Fire began on June 13, 2021, likely due to a tree falling on a power line. While occasional critical fire weather conditions helped the blaze to grow and spread, the fire was 95% contained on June 24th.
• Wildfire in Idaho, June 14 to 15, 2021$310,000 · 1 eventA human caused wildfire was started about 5 miles south of American Falls and spread rapidly on June 14th. It was noticed at about 3:30 PM. Two homes were destroyed by the fire.
• Wildfire in Idaho, June 15 to 17, 2021$22,000 · 1 eventThe North Monument Fire was detected at 4 pm on the 15th and burned about 7 miles west of Arco. US 20/26/93 were temporarily closed due to the fire. Three power poles were destroyed. Some power outages reported at Craters of the Moon National Monument.
• Wildfire in Colorado, June 15 to 30, 20211 eventA wildfire began from unknown causes 30 miles north-northeast of Meeker.
• Wildfire in Arizona, June 16 to 29, 20211 eventThe Horton Fire was the largest of four lightning caused fires that ignited on June 16 north of Hannagan Meadows in the White Mountains in Greenlee County.
• Wildfire in Arizona, June 16 to 28, 20211 eventThe lightning caused Bear Fire started June 16 in the White Mountains in Greenlee County. Thunderstorm outflow wind gusts in excess of 40 mph caused the wildfire to grow to more than 2000 acres on June 20 and resulted in the closure of Highway 191.
• Wildfire in Arizona, June 17 to 30, 20211 eventFive fires were started by lightning on June 17 to 18 and were treated as a fire complex under one Incident Command Team. Combined, they burned just over 800 acres.
• Wildfire and Heat in California, June 17 to 30, 20211 death · 5 eventsStrong high pressure over the Four Corners brought a hot and dry air mass to the Central Coast and Bay Area in mid June. Hot daytime temperatures for multiple days in the triple digits resulted in record breaking heat for the interior portion of the region.
• Wildfire in Arizona, June 18 to 30, 20211 eventThe Rafael Fire was started by lightning June 18 and grew to just over 78,000 acres by the end of June. Little if any growth was observed in July before the rainy season started.
• Wildfire in Colorado, June 18 to 29, 20211 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 10 miles northwest of Red Mesa.
• Wildfire in Colorado, June 18 to 29, 20211 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 10 miles northwest of Red Mesa.
• Wildfire in Colorado, June 18 to 30, 20211 eventMultiple lightning strikes caused a wildfire in a remote area, 23 miles south of Rangely.
• Wildfire in Arizona, June 18 to 30, 20213 eventsThe Backbone Fire was started by lightning on June 16 at around 1130 PM and burned around 40,900 acres by the end of June. The fire was located about 2 miles 2 west of Pine, Arizona in pi on, juniper, chaparral, brush, grass, and cactus.
• Wildfire and Lightning Strike in California, June 19 to 27, 2021$1,000 · 3 eventsAn early season monsoon weather pattern led to areas of lightning and wind, as well as some small wildfires.
• Wildfire in Oregon, June 19 to 30, 20211 eventThe Cutoff fire was reported at 1330 PDT on 06/19/21. The cause is under investigation. As of the last report at 0630 PDT on 07/01/21, the fire covered 1288 acres and was 100 percent contained.
• Wildfire in Arizona, June 20 to 29, 20213 eventsThe lightning caused Walnut Fire started June 20 in the Little Dragoon Mountains in Cochise County.
• Wildfire in Utah, June 20 to 27, 20211 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 3 miles north-northwest of Sego.
• Wildfire in Colorado, June 20 to 30, 20211 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 80 miles northwest of Craig.
• Wildfire in Arizona, June 20 to 28, 20211 eventThe human caused Alamo Fire started June 20 near the International Border in Santa Cruz County. The wildfire grew quickly in hot conditions and due to occasional thunderstorm outflow wind gusts near 40 mph on both sides of the border.
• Wildfire in Colorado, June 20 to 30, 20211 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 20 miles south of Steamboat Springs.
• Wildfire in Colorado, June 20 to 30, 20211 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 15 miles south of Eagle near Sylvan State Park.
• Wildfire in Idaho, June 21 to 22, 20211 eventThe Black Knoll Wildfire began on the 21st just north of Saint Anthony and grew to 443 acres before being contained.
• Wildfire in California, June 25 to 30, 20211 eventThe Lava wildfire was started by lightning at 0745 PDT on 06/25/21. As of 0630 PDT on 07/01/21, the fire had burned 17591 acres and was 19 percent contained. 0 structures were lost, and 4.2 million dollars had been spent on firefighting efforts.
• Debris Flow in Idaho, June 25, 20211 eventOn June 25th video of debris flow running over north bound interstate 15 just north of the Utah border in Oneida county was seen. Radar estimated 2 inches of rainfall in that area resulting in the debris flow and flooding.
• Debris Flows in Colorado, June 26 to 27, 2021$250,000 · 2 eventsAmple moisture remained situated over western Colorado for several days as the backside of an upper level trough extended along the Continental Divide.
• Wildfire in Arizona, June 28 to 30, 20211 eventThe lightning caused Bottom Fire started June 28 in the Gila River Valley on San Carlos Apache tribal lands within Graham County. The fire quickly grew to around 3000 acres by the end of the month due to daily bouts of gusty thunderstorm outflow winds.
• Wildfire in California, June 28 to 30, 20211 eventThe Tennant wildfire started around 1600 PDT on 06/28/21. It was human caused. As of 0630 PDT on 07/01/21, the fire had burned 8159 acres and was 6 percent contained. 5 structures had been lost, and 400000 dollars had been spent on firefighting efforts.
• Wildfire in California, June 28 to 29, 20211 eventDry conditions led to a wildfire west of Hemet.
• Debris Flow in California, June 29, 20211 eventNear record hot temperatures and increasing moisture led to the development of scattered slow moving thunderstorms with heavy rainfall.
• Wildfire in Arizona, June 30, 20211 eventThe Tiger fire was started by lightning and grew to about 16,300 acres before it was contained by the end of July.
• Wildfire in California, June 30, 20211 eventThe Salt Fire began when weather conditions were very dry with prolonged heat in the area. Gusty south winds of 15-25 mph also impacted the area.
• Wildfire in Utah, July 1 to 2, 2021$1.5 million · 1 eventAn abandoned campfire started a wildfire 14 miles southeast of Moab.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 1 to 9, 2021$500,000 · 1 eventMultiple lightning strikes caused a wildfire in a remote area, 23 miles south of Rangely.
• Wildfire in Arizona, July 1 to 10, 2021$50,000 · 1 eventThe lightning caused Bottom Fire started June 28 in the Gila River Valley on San Carlos Apache tribal lands within Graham County. The fire quickly grew to around 3000 acres by the end of the month due to daily bouts of gusty thunderstorm outflow winds.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 1, 20211 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 80 miles northwest of Craig.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 1 to 31, 20211 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 20 miles south of Steamboat Springs.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 1 to 31, 20211 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 15 miles south of Eagle near Sylvan State Park.
• Wildfire in Montana, July 1 to 31, 20211 eventA human-caused wildfire started on the afternoon of June 13th. The wildfire was located about 7 miles south of Red Lodge. Hot, dry, and windy conditions resulted in the fire to spread rapidly over the next 24 to 48 hours.
• Wildfire in California, July 1 to 13, 20211 eventThe Tennant wildfire started around 1600 PDT on 06/28/21. It was human caused. As of the last report at 0630 PDT on 07/08/21, the fire had burned 10580 acres and was 100 percent contained.
• Wildfire in California, July 1 to 31, 20211 eventThe Lava wildfire was started by lightning at 0745 PDT on 06/25/21. As of 0630 PDT on 08/01/21, the fire had burned 26365 acres and was 78 percent contained. 23 structures were lost, and 34.2 million dollars had been spent on firefighting efforts.
• Wildfire in California, July 1 to 19, 20211 eventThe Salt Fire began when weather conditions were very dry with prolonged heat in the area. Gusty south winds of 15-25 mph also impacted the area.
• Wildfire in Montana, July 1 to 31, 20211 eventStrong high pressure was the dominant weather pattern in July, which was occasionally suppressed by passing shortwaves and modest moisture for periods of scattered thunderstorms. Often times, the thunderstorm activity was followed by gusty winds and low relative humidity.
• Debris Flow in Idaho, July 1, 20211 eventSlow-moving thunderstorms produced heavy rain, causing debris flow.
• Wildfire in Utah, July 2 to 4, 20211 eventA lightning strike most likely ignited a wildfire 26 miles northeast of Bonanza.
• Wildfire in South Dakota, July 3 to 4, 20211 eventOngoing drought conditions and dry fuels, combined with low humidity and gusty southerly wind allowed an accidental fire to quickly grow and scorch over 150 acres of forest and grassland.
• Debris Flow in Colorado, July 3, 2021$100,000 · 1 eventResidual moisture from previous days convection helped to prime the atmosphere which led to an uptick in shower and thunderstorm coverage across western Colorado. Some storms produced heavy rain which led to localized debris flows across the Grizzly Creek Fire burn scar.
• Wildfire in Washington, July 4 to 13, 20211 eventRed flag conditions, with very low humidity and breezy winds, led to the ideal set up for wildfire ignition. In addition, the inaccessible terrain, with steep drainages and cliffs, made conditions more difficult to extinguish the fire.
• Wildfire in California, July 4 to 13, 20211 eventThe Juniper wildfire started around 12:00 AM on 07/05/21. The cause was unknown. As of the last report at 0630 PDT on 07/13/21, the fire covered 1011 acres and was 100 percent contained. 0 structures were lost, and 1.9 million dollars had been spent on firefighting efforts.
• Debris Flow in Colorado, July 5, 20211 eventAmple moisture remained centered across western Colorado as a shortwave disturbance approached the region. Additionally, residual moisture from previous days convection helped to prime the atmosphere which led to an uptick in shower and thunderstorm coverage.
• Wildfire in Oregon, July 5 to 31, 20211 eventThe Jack wildfire started at 17:00 PDT on 07/05/21. The cause was unknown. As of 0630 PDT on 08/01/21, the fire covered 23002 acres and was 75 percent contained. 1 structure had been lost, and 23.4 million dollars had been spent on firefighting efforts.
• Wildfire in Oregon, July 6 to 31, 20211 eventThe Bootleg fire started with a lightning strike around 1:42 PDT on 07/06/21 and grew rapidly, becoming the largest fire of the year thus far in the United States. It merged with the Log fire on 07/20/21 and the former Log fire was included in the Bootleg acreage.
• Wildfire in Montana, July 8 to 31, 20217 eventsStrong high pressure was the dominant weather pattern in July, which was occasionally suppressed by passing shortwaves and modest moisture for periods of scattered thunderstorms. Often times, the thunderstorm activity was followed by gusty winds and low relative humidity.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 8, 20211 eventA chain dragging from a moving vehicle ignited a wildfire near Purdy Mesa Reservoir in Mesa County.
• Debris Flows in Washington, July 8, 2021$25,000 · 2 eventsScattered thunderstorms produced heavy rain across northern Washington, with 0.38 of rain measured in 2 hours at a site close to the debris flow reports.
• Wildfire in Washington, July 8 to 10, 20211 eventPassing showers on the Waterville Plateau had embedded thunderstorms with a few lightning strikes and gusty winds. With the strong winds, hot conditions and dry fuels fueled the fire.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 9 to 31, 20211 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 15 miles north of Steamboat Springs.
• Wildfire in California, July 11 to 15, 20211 eventThe Bradley fire started on the afternoon of 7/11/2021. The cause was unknown. As of the last report at 0630 PDT on 07/15/21, the fire covered 357 acres and was 100 percent contained. 0 structures were lost, and 900000 dollars had been spent on firefighting efforts.
• Wildfire in Oregon, July 12 to 31, 20211 eventUpper level high pressure dominated the weather across much of the western United States resulting in warm and dry conditions stretching from June into July.
• Wildfire in Oregon, July 12 to 20, 20211 eventThe Log wildfire was discovered at 0600 PDT on 07/12/21. It was declared merged with the Bootleg fire on 07/20/21. As of the last report at 0630 PDT on 07/20/2021, the fire covered 10484 acres and was 0% contained.
• Wildfire in California, July 13 to 31, 20211 death · 3 injured · 1 eventThe Dixie Fire started under drought conditions with hot weather, strong winds, and exceptionally dry vegetation in the area.
• Wildfire in Washington, July 13 to 25, 20211 injured · $5,000 · 1 eventHot temperatures, with very low relative humidity and dry fuels, provided dangerous conditions for rapid fire spread. There were wind gusts to 25 mph recorded at the Wenatchee Airport the day of fire ignition.
• Wildfire in Idaho, July 14 to 18, 20211 eventA 342 acre fire was detected July 14th 15 miles southeast of Burley. The fire burned timber, grass, and brush. Aerial resources utilized with 100 personnel on the fire.
• Debris Flow in Colorado, July 14, 2021$100,000 · 1 eventA broader midlevel trough moved across western Colorado and acted on ample residual monsoonal moisture to produce numerous showers and thunderstorms across the area.
• Debris Flows and Damaging Wind in Utah, July 14, 2021$50,000 · 61 kt wind · 6 eventsA broad midlevel trough moved across eastern Utah and acted on ample residual monsoonal moisture to produce numerous showers and thunderstorms across the area. Some storms produced gusty winds to 70 mph as well as heavy rain which led to localized debris flows in San Juan County.
• Wildfire in Montana, July 16 to 31, 20213 eventsStrong high pressure was the dominant weather pattern in July, which was occasionally suppressed by passing shortwaves and modest moisture for periods of scattered thunderstorms. Often times, the thunderstorm activity was followed by gusty winds and low relative humidity.
• Wildfire in Montana, July 16 to 20, 20211 death · 1 injured · 1 eventThe Harris Wildfire north of Joliet, which was caused by lightning, burned around 2600 acres.|Road closures consisted of Coal Creek Road from Highway 212 to Bellion Road, all of Bellion Road and both entrances of Farewell Road. Multiple agencies responded to the fire.
• Debris Flow and Lightning Strike in California, July 17 to 19, 2021$1,000 · 3 eventsA persistent ridge across the Desert Southwest allowed for enhanced monsoonal moisture across Southern California from July 17-19. A Flash Flood Watch was issued for the Riverside County Mountains and the San Diego County Mountains for July 18.
• Wildfire in Montana, July 17 to 31, 20212 eventsThe lightning-caused fire started on July 17th in the northeast Crazy Mountains, 24 miles southwest of Harlowton.
• Wildfire in Montana, July 17 to 31, 20211 eventA Pacific trough brought three days of thunderstorm activity that was followed by gusty westerly winds and low minimum relative humidity. This allowed the Harris Fire, located over southwestern Cascade County, to undergo explosive growth in just one day.
• Debris Flow in Colorado, July 17, 20211 eventMonsoonal moisture was once again advected into southwest Colorado as the area of high pressure drifted north. This abundance of moisture combined with weak instability to fuel scattered to numerous showers and thunderstorms over the southern mountains.
• Debris Flows in Colorado, July 20, 2021$800,000 · 5 eventsMonsoonal moisture pushed northward across western Colorado as the ridge of high pressure tilted eastward. As a result, precipitable water values exceeded an inch over the southern and central zones.
• Debris Flows in Colorado, July 20 to 21, 20212 eventsA subtle pulse of monsoon moisture worked its way northward across western Colorado. This, paired with the already present abundance of moisture, resulted in scattered showers and thunderstorms across the region.
• Wildfire in Idaho, July 21 to 23, 20211 eventA 1,620 acre fire began via a lightning strike on July 21st and was contained on July 23rd. It was 4 miles southeast of Pauline. It was mainly fueled by grass and brush and had about 100 personnel fighting it with aerial suppression involved.
• Wildfire in Washington, July 22 to 27, 20211 eventActive thunderstorms moved over eastern Washington, especially Whitman County, late July 21st. The high lightning frequency, with numerous positive strikes, ignited the Steptoe Canyon Fire.
• Debris Flows in Colorado, July 22, 2021$3.3 million · 3 eventsEven with high pressure centered over the region, deep monsoonal moisture continued to advect into western Colorado.
• Debris Flows and Hail in Colorado, July 24, 2021$205,000 · 1 in hail · 9 eventsAbundant monsoon moisture remained in place across the Western Slope. As a result, another round of widespread showers and thunderstorms developed across the area with many storms producing heavy rain.
• Wildfire in South Dakota, July 24, 20211 eventA wildfire was started 15 miles northwest of Fort Pierre by a combine. The fire consumed about 307 acres. Gusty northerly winds of 20 to 25 mph and low relative humidity of 9 to 13 percent were big factors in the fire spread.
• Debris Flows and Flood in Utah, July 25, 2021$52,000 · 5 eventsAbundant monsoon moisture remained in place across the Western Slope. As a result, another round of widespread showers and thunderstorms developed across the area with many storms producing heavy rain.
• Wildfire in Colorado, July 26 to 29, 20211 eventA lightning strike most likely ignited a wildfire 70 miles west of Craig.
• Wildfire in Montana, July 27 to 31, 20211 eventThe wildfire was first reported on Tuesday, July 27 at 1:30 PM. It was then called Poverty Flats, named after the area ten miles north of Hardin where it originated from a burning coal seam. Due to a north wind from a cold front, the fire ran 16 miles south July 28 and 29.
• Debris Flow in California, July 27, 20211 eventA debris flow from the flanks of Mount Shasta moved down Whitney Creek, which periodically overflowed Highway 97 in Siskiyou county, causing several closures of the highway in the afternoon and early evening.
• Debris Flows in Puerto Rico, July 28, 20212 eventsA retrogressing upper-level low combine with sufficient low-level moisture, daytime heating and local effects to generate shower and thunderstorm activity across portions of northwestern Puerto Rico.
• Debris Flows and Flood in Colorado, July 28, 2021$3,000 · 1 in hail · 7 eventsSubstantial monsoon moisture remained over the area as high pressure drifted east over the Plains. As a result, widespread showers and thunderstorms developed with many storms producing heavy rain.
• Wildfire in Oregon, July 29 to 31, 20211 eventUpper level high pressure dominated the weather across much of the western United States resulting in warm and dry conditions stretching from June into July.
• Debris Flows and Hail in Colorado, July 29, 2021$126 million · 1.5 in hail · 3 eventsSubstantial monsoon moisture remained over the area as high pressure drifted east over the Plains. Additionally, strong instability was in place as a midlevel shortwave trough moved overhead.
• Wildfire in Oregon, July 29 to 31, 20211 eventThe Rough Patch complex consisted of a group of small fires started by lightning on the evening of 07/29/2021. As of 0630 PDT on 08/01/2021, the fires covered 94 acres and was 1 percent contained. 0 structures were lost, and the cost of firefighting efforts was not available.
• Wildfire in California, July 29 to 31, 20211 eventThe McFarland Fire started by lightning on July 29th near McFarland Ridge, south of Highway 36 near Wildwood, California. The fire started in an area under drought conditions with hot weather and exceptionally dry vegetation in the area.
• Wildfire in California, July 30 to 31, 20211 eventThe River Complex wildfire(s) was started by lightning on 07/30/21 around 700 AM PDT. |No information was available about this fire at the end of the month. However, there was in August. See the storm reports for August 2021.
• Debris Flows in Colorado, July 30, 2021$23,000 · 4 eventsThe prolonged North American Monsoon pattern prevailed across western Colorado with abundant moisture present as precipitable water values trended to 170% of normal. Additionally, morning sunshine allowed the atmosphere to rapidly destabilize over the higher terrain.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, July 30 to 31, 20211 eventOne of the largest brush fires in Hawaii County history started in the morning hours of Friday, July 30th, in the South Kohala District along Mana Road near Parker Ranch land.
• Wildfire in California, July 30 to 31, 20211 eventA lightning storm during July 2021 initiated a number of wildfires in northern Trinity County that merged into the River Complex. The complex was contained by late October.
• Debris Flows and Heavy Rain in California, July 30 to 31, 2021$41,000 · 5 eventsUnusually moist airmass associated with a monsoon surge produce widespread thunderstorms. Flash flooding and debris flows occurred as a result, including on very recent burn scars.
• Wildfire in California, July 30 to 31, 20211 eventA lightning storm during late July 2021 initiated the Monument wildfire in western Trinity County. This fire was contained by late October. The Monument Fire resulted in the loss of 50 homes, 13 businesses, and 41 outbuildings, with total damage costs of $12.7 million.
• Wildfire in California, July 31, 20211 eventThe McCash wildfire started at 1911 PDT on 07/31/21. The cause was unknown. No information was available about this fire at the end of the month. However, there was in August. See the storm reports for August 2021.
• Wildfire in Colorado, August 1 to 31, 2021$250,000 · 1 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 20 miles south of Steamboat Springs.
• Wildfire in Montana, August 1 to 31, 20212 eventsThe lightning-caused fire started on July 17th in the northeast Crazy Mountains, 24 miles southwest of Harlowton.
• Wildfire in Montana, August 1 to 12, 20211 eventThe wildfire was first reported on Tuesday, July 27 at 1:30 PM. It was then called Poverty Flats, named after the area ten miles north of Hardin where it originated from a burning coal seam. Due to a north wind from a cold front, the fire ran 16 miles south July 28 and 29.
• Wildfire in Colorado, August 1 to 31, 20211 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 15 miles north of Steamboat Springs.
• Wildfire in Colorado, August 1 to 31, 20211 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 15 miles south of Eagle near Sylvan State Park.
• Wildfire and Astronomical Low Tide in California, August 1 to 31, 20211 death · 2 eventsThe Dixie Fire started under drought conditions with hot weather, strong winds, and exceptionally dry vegetation in the area.
• Wildfire in Oregon, August 1 to 31, 20211 death · 1 eventThe Middle Fork Complex started in late July in the Willamette National Forest and continued through August. The cause of the fire is unknown at this time. A firefighter was fatality injured while working the Gales Fire.
• Wildfire in Washington, August 1 to 30, 2021$1.1 million · 1 eventPassing scattered showers on the evening of July 12th, with embedded lightning, ignited several wildfires as they passed across eastern Washington. The summer season of hot and dry conditions fueled fires across the Colville Reservation.
• Wildfire in Idaho, August 1 to 19, 20212 eventsOvernight and early morning scattered showers on July 7th, with embedded lightning, ignited several wildfires as they passed across the Idaho Panhandle. Weeks of hot and dry conditions fueled the fires into mid-August.
• Wildfire in Oregon, August 1 to 18, 20211 eventThe Bruler fire continued into August as warm and dry conditions persisted.
• Wildfire in California, August 1 to 31, 20211 eventA lightning storm during late July 2021 initiated the Monument wildfire in western Trinity County. This fire was contained by late October. The Monument Fire resulted in the loss of 50 homes, 13 businesses, and 41 outbuildings, with total damage costs of $12.7 million.
• Wildfire in California, August 1 to 31, 20211 eventThe McFarland Fire started by lightning on July 29th near McFarland Ridge, south of Highway 36 near Wildwood, California. The fire started in an area under drought conditions with hot weather and exceptionally dry vegetation in the area.
• Wildfire in California, August 1 to 31, 20211 eventA lightning storm during July 2021 initiated a number of wildfires in northern Trinity County that merged into the River Complex. The complex was contained by late October.
• Wildfire in Oregon, August 1 to 31, 20211 eventThe Rough Patch complex consisted of a group of small fires started by lightning on the evening of 07/29/2021. As of 0630 PDT on 09/01/2021, the fires covered 33887 acres and was 17 percent contained.
• Wildfire in Oregon, August 1 to 31, 20211 eventThe Jack wildfire started at 17:00 PDT on 07/05/21. Humans caused the fire. As of 0630 PDT on 09/01/21, the fire covered 23976 acres and was 53 percent contained. 0 structures had been lost, and 41.1 million dollars had been spent on firefighting efforts.
• Wildfire in California, August 1 to 25, 20211 eventThe Lava wildfire was started by lightning at 0745 PDT on 06/25/21. As of the last report at 0630 PDT on 08/25/21, the fire had burned 26409 acres and was 85 percent contained. 23 structures were lost, and 35.3 million dollars had been spent on firefighting efforts.
• Wildfire in Oregon, August 1 to 15, 20211 eventThe Bootleg fire started with a lightning strike around 1:42 PDT on 07/06/21 and grew rapidly, becoming the largest fire of the year thus far in the United States. It merged with the Log fire on 07/20/21 and the former Log fire was included in the Bootleg acreage.
• Wildfire in California, August 1 to 31, 20211 eventThe River Complex wildfire(s) was started by lightning on 07/30/21 around 700 AM PDT. As of 0630 PDT on 09/01/21, the fires had burned 106165 acres and was 23 percent contained. 15 structures were lost, and 30.0 million dollars had been spent on firefighting efforts.
• Wildfire in California, August 1 to 31, 20211 eventThe McCash Wildfire started at 1911 PDT on 07/31/21. It was caused by lightning. As of 0630 PDT on 09/01/21, the fire had burned 38903 acres and was 1 percent contained. 0 structures had been lost, and 14.3 million dollars had been spent on firefighting efforts.
• Wildfire in Washington, August 1 to 26, 20211 eventOvernight and early morning scattered showers on July 7th, with embedded lightning, ignited several wildfires as they passed across the region. Weeks of hot and dry conditions fueled fires across southeastern Washington throughout August.
• Wildfire in Hawaii, August 1 to 6, 20211 eventOne of the largest brush fires in Hawaii County history, if not the largest, continued into August after starting in the morning hours of Friday, July 30th, in the South Kohala District along Mana Road near Parker Ranch land.
• Wildfire in California, August 1 to 31, 20211 eventThe Antelope wildfire was started by lightning on 08/01/21 around 1030 AM PDT. As of 0630 PDT on 09/01/21, the fire had burned 71456 acres and was 70 percent contained. 17 structures were lost, and 36.5 million dollars had been spent on firefighting efforts.
• Debris Flows in Idaho, August 1 to 2, 20212 eventsMonsoonal subtropical moisture set the stage for thunderstorms to produce heavy rainfall across portions of the central Idaho.
• Wildfire in Oregon, August 1 to 31, 20211 eventThe fires in the Skyline Ridge Complex were started by lightning at around 17:00 PDT on 08/01/21. As of the last report at 0630 PDT on 08/31/21, the fires had burned 5760 acres and were 100 percent contained.
• Wildfire in Oregon, August 1 to 31, 20211 eventThe fires in the Devil's Knob Complex were started by lightning in early August. The exact date and time of initiation was uncertain. As of 0630 PDT on 09/01/21, the fires had burned 36933 acres and were 28 percent contained.
• Debris Flows and Flood in Utah, August 1, 2021$78,000 · 7 eventsAbundant monsoon moisture remained in place across eastern Utah. This, paired with increased instability, resulted in another round of showers and thunderstorms with the stronger storms producing heavy rain.
• Debris Flow in Colorado, August 1, 20211 eventAbundant monsoon moisture remained in place across the Western Slope. This, paired with increased instability, resulted in another round of showers and thunderstorms with the stronger storms producing heavy rain.
• Wildfire in Oregon, August 2 to 31, 20211 eventWarm and dry conditions through July gave way to a round of thunderstorms on August 2nd over the Mount Hood National Forest which triggered some wildfires in the area. The fires became the Bull Complex and continued into September.
• Debris Flow in Colorado, August 2, 2021$3,000 · 1 eventAbundant monsoon moisture across southwest Colorado resulted in another round of showers and thunderstorms. Some storms produced heavy rain which led to localized debris flows in San Juan County.
• Debris Flow in Colorado, August 4, 2021$5,000 · 1 eventResidual monsoon moisture paired with daytime heating was enough to generate scattered showers and thunderstorms over the mountains of west-central Colorado. Some storms produced moderate to heavy rain which led to localized debris flows in Pitkin County.
• Wildfire in Idaho, August 5 to 7, 20211 eventLightning caused a 5 acre fire 1 mile northeast of Hailey and prompted some evacuations in Hailey. Rain overnight on August 5th and 6th helped suppression and no structures were affected. The fire was controlled on the 6th and contained on the 7th.
• Wildfire in Montana, August 8 to 21, 20212 eventsThe Richard Spring Fire started on Sunday, August 8th around 230pm MDT 10 miles southwest of Colstrip. It was caused by a coal seam.
• Wildfire and Damaging Wind in Nebraska, August 9 to 10, 2021$550,000 · 54 kt wind · 4 eventsDuring the late afternoon and evening hours, discrete supercells developed along a boundary stretching across the Colorado border, Northwest Kansas, and extreme Southwest Nebraska.
• Wildfire in Utah, August 10 to 26, 20211 eventA lightning strike most likely ignited a wildfire near Moonwater and Hill Creeks in northeast Utah.
• Wildfire in Michigan, August 10 to 31, 2021$10,000 · 1 eventLightning sparked a wildfire on Isle Royale. The fire began August 10, 2021. The Horne Fire in a remote are of Isle Royale National Park near the shore of Duncan Bay by the Tobin-Duncan Portage burned approximately 521 acres by the end of August.
• Wildfire in Oregon, August 12 to 31, 20211 eventThe Fox Complex consisted of two fires (Patton Meadow and Willow Valley), both of which were started by lightning around 1530 PDT on 08/12/21. As of 0630 PDT on 09/01/2021, the fires covered 9754 acres and were 98 percent contained.
• Wildfire in California, August 14 to 31, 20212 eventsThe Caldor Fire started on August 14th near Little Mountain, CA and south of Pollock Pines in El Dorado County, off Highway 50. The fire started in an area under drought conditions with hot weather and exceptionally dry vegetation in the area.
• Wildfire in Minnesota, August 14 to 31, 20211 eventA wildfire was first detected around 3pm on August 5, 2021, near Greenwood Lake in Lake County. Officials believe the fire was started by a lightning strike in the past that caused a peat bog to smolder.
• Debris Flow and Flood in Utah, August 18 to 19, 2021$6,000 · 2 eventsAn area of low pressure originating from the Pacific Northwest dropped into the Great Basin. As this feature slowly lifted across the region it tapped into a stream of monsoon moisture from the south.
• Debris Flows in Colorado, August 19, 2021$3,000 · 2 eventsAn area of low pressure originating from the Pacific Northwest dropped into the Great Basin. As this feature slowly lifted across the region it tapped into a stream of monsoon moisture from the south.
• Debris Flows in Washington, August 20, 20212 eventsShowers and thunderstorms developed across the Inland Northwest in the afternoon and evening of August 20th. The northern counties received the greatest rainfall totals where stationary thunderstorms brought heavy downpours to the area that evening.
• Debris Flow and Damaging Wind in Utah, August 26, 2021$1,000 · 54 kt wind · 2 eventsA shortwave trough progressed across the region as subtropical moisture streamed in from the south. As a result, scattered showers and thunderstorms developed across eastern Utah.
• Wildfire in Colorado, August 28 to 31, 20211 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 23 miles southeast of Rangely.
• Debris Flows and Flood in California, August 29 to 31, 2021$111,000 · 18 eventsAn influx of monsoonal moisture impacted portions of the southwestern U.S. from August 29th through 31st. This brought multiple thunderstorms from the deserts of Southern California all the way to the coast, where areas saw gusty winds, heavy rain, and frequent lightning.
• Wildfire in Minnesota, September 1 to 20, 20211 eventA wildfire was first detected around 3pm on August 5, 2021, near Greenwood Lake in Lake County. Officials believe the fire was started by a lightning strike in the past that caused a peat bog to smolder.
• Wildfire in Colorado, September 1 to 14, 20211 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 20 miles south of Steamboat Springs.
• Wildfire in Idaho, September 1 to 30, 20211 eventA large wildfire began August 10th and burned into mid October before being 100 percent contained. It burned 88,000 acres and advanced to 30 miles northwest of Stanley. It damaged some back roads making them impassable and several closures including rafting put in points.
• Wildfire in Colorado, September 1 to 30, 20211 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 15 miles north of Steamboat Springs.
• Wildfire in Colorado, September 1 to 30, 20211 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 15 miles south of Eagle near Sylvan State Park.
• Wildfire in Idaho, September 1 to 30, 202119 injured · $2,000 · 3 eventsTrestle Creek Complex, Character Complex, and Larkins Complex wildfires were all ignited by lightning due to passing thunderstorms in the Idaho Panhandle. In addition, hot and breezy days created rapid spread and spot fires in the dry fuels.
• Wildfire in Washington, September 1 to 30, 2021$3.0 million · 7 eventsThe active 2021 wildfire season continued with nine destructive fires burning almost 100,000 acres, contained by the end of September. They were fueled by many days with windy conditions and low relative humidity.
• Wildfire in California, September 1 to 30, 20212 eventsThe Caldor Fire started on August 14th near Little Mountain, CA and south of Pollock Pines in El Dorado County, off Highway 50. The fire started in an area under drought conditions with hot weather and exceptionally dry vegetation in the area.
• Wildfire in California, September 1 to 30, 20211 eventThe McFarland Fire started by lightning on July 29th near McFarland Ridge, south of Highway 36 near Wildwood, California. The fire started in an area under drought conditions with hot weather and exceptionally dry vegetation in the area.
• Wildfire in California, September 1 to 30, 20211 eventThe Dixie Fire started under drought conditions with hot weather, strong winds, and exceptionally dry vegetation in the area.
• Wildfire in Oregon, September 1 to 30, 20211 eventThe Bull Complex wildfire continued through September. Warm and dry conditions gradually gave way to cooler and wetter weather in the second half of the month.
• Wildfire in Oregon, September 1 to 30, 20211 eventThe Middle Fork Complex started in late July in the Willamette National Forest and continued through September. Warm and dry conditions gradually gave way to cooler and wetter weather in the second half of the month.
• Wildfire in California, September 1 to 30, 20211 eventThe River Complex wildfire(s) was started by lightning on 07/30/21 around 700 AM PDT. As of 0630 PDT on 10/01/21, the fires had burned 198663 acres and was 69 percent contained. 122 structures were lost, and 79.9 million dollars had been spent on firefighting efforts.
• Wildfire in California, September 1 to 30, 20211 eventThe McCash Wildfire started at 1911 PDT on 07/31/21. It was caused by lightning. As of 0630 PDT on 10/01/21, the fire had burned 93245 acres and was 61 percent contained. 0 structures had been lost, and 39.9 million dollars had been spent on firefighting efforts.
• Wildfire in California, September 1 to 30, 20211 eventThe Antelope wildfire was started by lightning on 08/01/21 around 1030 AM PDT. As of 0630 PDT on 10/01/21, the fire had burned 145632 acres and was 95 percent contained. 18 structures were lost, and 68.1 million dollars had been spent on firefighting efforts.
• Wildfire in Oregon, September 1 to 2, 20211 eventThe Fox Complex consisted of two fires (Patton Meadow and Willow Valley), both of which were started by lightning around 1530 PDT on 08/12/21. As of the last report at 0630 PDT on 09/02/2021, the fires covered 9754 acres and were 100 percent contained.
• Wildfire in Oregon, September 1 to 30, 20211 eventThe fires in the Devil's Knob Complex were started by lightning in early August. The exact date and time of initiation was uncertain. As of 0630 PDT on 10/01/21, the fires had burned 70110 acres and were 58 percent contained.
• Wildfire in Oregon, September 1 to 30, 20211 eventThe Rough Patch complex consisted of a group of small fires started by lightning on the evening of 07/29/2021. As of 0630 PDT on 10/01/2021, the fires covered 50426 acres and were 68 percent contained.
• Wildfire in Oregon, September 1 to 30, 20211 eventThe Jack wildfire started at 17:00 PDT on 07/05/21. Humans caused the fire. As of 0630 PDT on 10/01/21, the fire covered 24165 acres and was 80 percent contained. 0 structures had been lost, and 44.1 million dollars had been spent on firefighting efforts.
• Wildfire in California, September 1 to 30, 20211 eventA lightning storm during July 2021 initiated a number of wildfires in northern Trinity County that merged into the River Complex. The complex was contained by late October.
• Wildfire in California, September 1 to 30, 20211 eventA lightning storm during late July 2021 initiated the Monument wildfire in western Trinity County. This fire was contained by late October. The Monument Fire resulted in the loss of 50 homes, 13 businesses, and 41 outbuildings, with total damage costs of $12.7 million.
• Wildfire in California, September 1 to 3, 20211 eventOn the first day of the month a brush fire broke out in Marin County later named the Lassen Fire. Breezy onshore winds that day as well as prolonged dry conditions helped the fire quickly grow in its early stages.
• Wildfire in Idaho, September 5 to 20, 20211 eventA human caused fire began on September 5th and burned 510 acres about 23 miles south of Stanley and affected the Alturas Creek Campgrounds. It burned in brush, grass, ponderosa pine and Douglas fir. It was in very steep and complex terrain.
• Wildfire in Oregon, September 7 to 30, 20211 eventThe Cougar Peak Wildfire was discovered at 1345 PDT on Tuesday, September 7. The cause was undetermined. As of 0630 PDT on 10/01/21, the fire covered 91795 acres and was 85 percent contained.
• Wildfire in Washington, September 9 to 30, 20212 eventsFour wildfires, ignited between July 7th and 16th, burned over 120,000 acres of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest and public land in Okanogan County. These included the Cedar Creek, Varden, Cub Creek 2, and Delancy fires.
• Wildfire in Wyoming, September 9 to 30, 20211 eventThe Sand Creek Fire was first reported on Thursday, September 9, in the Sand Creek drainage about 13 miles west of Lander.
• Debris Flow and Flooding in California, September 9 to 10, 2021$31,000 · 56 kt wind · 9 eventsScattered thunderstorms produced heavy rain and severe wind gusts across the Inland Empire, mountains and deserts on Thursday, September 9, leading to flooding, debris flows and rock slides. Elevated convection also made it to the coast on September 9.
• Debris Flow in California, September 10, 20211 eventA mudslide coming down Whitney Creek on the northwest slope of Mount Shasta impacted Highway 97. This occurred at 0507 PDT on 09/10/21. 0.4 to 0.7 inches of rain fell in the area over four hours.
• Debris Flow in Montana, September 10 to 11, 20211 eventAn upper level trough with near record atmospheric moisture levels moved around the western U.S. ridge from Oregon to northwest Montana.
• Wildfire in California, September 12 to 20, 2021$18 million · 1 eventThe Hopkins Fire was started due to arson in the community of Calpella, which is located north of Ukiah, CA. The fire started in mid September and was contained about a week later.
• Wildfire and High Wind in Montana, September 18 to 30, 202156 kt wind · 7 eventsA vigorous Pacific weather system and attendant cold front brought scattered areas of strong wind gusts throughout the forecast area. An area of 50 kt + H700 winds streamed ahead of a cold front, some of which was transferred to the surface.
• Wildfire in Oklahoma, September 20, 2021$100,000 · 1 eventUnseasonably hot temperatures, low relative humidity, and wind gusts to near 25 mph combined with dry grasses to create very high fire spread potential on the 20th. A wildfire that developed in Pittsburg County burned nearly 200 acres.
• Wildfire in Texas, September 20, 20211 eventA large wildfire occurred in Comanche County burning over 1200 acres.
• Wildfire in California, September 22 to 23, 20211 eventProlonged region wide dry conditions along with locally breezy winds allowed the Fremont Fire to break out along the Napa/Sonoma County border. No evacuations were needed and no structures were damaged or destroyed.
• Wildfire in Texas, September 26, 20211 eventA large grassfire burned 750 acres in Jack County just to the north of Jacksboro.
• Debris Flows and Flooding in Puerto Rico, September 28 to 29, 20216 eventsThe combination of near normal moisture, light steering winds from Hurricane Sam passing well northeast of the area, and local and diurnal effects resulted in active afternoons across portions of interior and western on September 28th and 29th.
• Debris Flows in Colorado, September 28 to 29, 20212 eventsAn area of low pressure trekking over southwest Colorado was absorbed into a broader Pacific trough that lifted across the Western Slope. This led to scattered to widespread showers and thunderstorms.
• Wildfire in Colorado, October 1 to 15, 20211 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 15 miles north of Steamboat Springs.
• Wildfire in Colorado, October 1 to 12, 20211 eventA lightning strike ignited a wildfire 15 miles south of Eagle near Sylvan State Park.
• Wildfire in California, October 1 to 31, 2021$22 million · 1 eventA lightning storm during late July 2021 initiated the Monument wildfire in western Trinity County. This fire was contained by late October. The Monument Fire resulted in the loss of 50 homes, 13 businesses, and 41 outbuildings, with total damage costs of $12.7 million.
• Wildfire in Washington, October 1 to 19, 2021$500,000 · 3 eventsThere is considerable damage to the Okanogan-Wenatchee and Colville National Forests due to three long-living wildfires: Nason, TwentyFive Mile, and Walker Creek. They burned over 50,000 acres, which were mostly uninhabited areas.
• Wildfire in Idaho, October 1 to 8, 20213 injured · 1 eventPassing thunderstorms ignited twelve individual fires in the central Idaho Panhandle. Most were small and short-living.
• Wildfire in California, October 1 to 20, 20212 eventsThe Caldor Fire started on August 14th near Little Mountain, CA and south of Pollock Pines in El Dorado County, off Highway 50. The fire started in an area under drought conditions with hot weather and exceptionally dry vegetation in the area.
• Wildfire in California, October 1 to 29, 20211 eventThe River Complex wildfire(s) was started by lightning on 07/30/21 around 700 AM PDT. As of the last report at 0630 PDT on 10/29/21, the fires had burned 199359 acres and was 100 percent contained.
• Wildfire in California, October 1 to 29, 20211 eventThe McCash Wildfire started at 1911 PDT on 07/31/21. It was caused by lightning. As of the last report at 0630 PDT on 10/29/21, the fire had burned 94962 acres and was 100 percent contained.
• Wildfire in Oregon, October 1 to 15, 20211 eventThe fires in the Devil's Knob Complex were started by lightning in early August. The exact date and time of initiation was uncertain. As of the last report at 0630 PDT on 10/15/21, the fires had burned 70110 acres and were 65 percent contained.
• Wildfire in California, October 1 to 18, 20211 eventThe Antelope wildfire was started by lightning on 08/01/21 around 1030 AM PDT. As of the last report at 0630 PDT on 10/18/21, the fire had burned 145632 acres and was 100 percent contained. 18 structures were lost, and 74.9 million dollars had been spent on firefighting efforts.
• Wildfire in Oregon, October 1 to 18, 20211 eventThe Jack wildfire started at 17:00 PDT on 07/05/21. Humans caused the fire. As of the last report at 0630 PDT on 10/18/21, the fire covered 24165 acres and was 83 percent contained. 0 structures had been lost, and 44.7 million dollars had been spent on firefighting efforts.
• Wildfire in Oregon, October 1 to 21, 20211 eventThe Rough Patch complex consisted of a group of small fires started by lightning on the evening of 07/29/2021. As of the last report at 0630 PDT on 10/21/2021, the fires covered 50409 acres and were 80 percent contained.
• Wildfire in Oregon, October 1 to 13, 20211 eventThe Cougar Peak Wildfire was discovered at 1345 PDT on Tuesday, September 7. The cause was undetermined. As of the last report at 0630 PDT on 10/13/21, the fire covered 91810 acres and was 98 percent contained.
• Wildfire in California, October 1 to 30, 20211 eventThe Dixie Fire started under drought conditions with hot weather, strong winds, and exceptionally dry vegetation in the area.
• Debris Flows and Flooding in Puerto Rico, October 1, 2021$2,000 · 7 eventsAbundant low-level moisture combined with daytime heating and local effects as well as light steering winds to result in slow-moving shower and thunderstorm activity across portions of interior, northern, and western Puerto Rico.
• Wildfire in California, October 1 to 25, 2021$18 million · 1 eventA lightning storm during July 2021 initiated a number of wildfires in northern Trinity County that merged into the River Complex. The complex was contained by late October.
• Wildfire in Montana, October 4 to 31, 20212 eventsOngoing dry conditions, along with unseasonably warm and gusty winds, allowed the human-caused Crown Mountain and South Moccasin Fires to quickly grow on the 4th of October.
• Wildfire in Texas, October 19, 20211 eventDry and windy conditions along with a worsening drought resulted in a large wildfire in Hutchinson County in the early afternoon hours.
• Wildfire and High Wind in Colorado, October 26, 20211 death · 1 injured · 52 kt wind · 3 eventsThroughout the day, a cold front gradually moved into Eastern Colorado, causing wind speeds to increase throughout the afternoon with gusts up to 60 mph across Yuma and Kit Carson counties.
• Wildfire and Hail in Kansas, October 26, 202161 kt wind · 6 eventsThroughout the day, a cold front gradually moved into Northwest Kansas. As the front crossed the Colorado border, strong winds spread a fire near the town of Ruleton damaging a railroad track, power pole, and a patch of farmland.
• Wildfire in Texas, October 26 to 27, 20211 eventA worsening drought along with windy and dry conditions created an environment for large wildfires. A very large wildfire occurred in Moore county near Dumas in the late afternoon and early evening.
• Wildfire in Texas, October 27 to 28, 2021$100,000 · 1 eventConditions favorable to wildfire spread arrived behind a dry cold front in late October. Abnormally dry to moderate drought conditions were reported in northeastern Starr County due to lack of rain through much of September and October.
• Wildfire in Kansas, November 6, 2021$6,000 · 1 eventOn the morning of November 6th, a wildfire began when a hay baler caught on fire. This wildfire was reported to damage the hay baler, a few hay bales, and the adjacent area.
• Wildfire and Heat in California, November 11 to 15, 2021$5,000 · 58 kt wind · 23 eventsThe fifth Santa Ana wind episode of the season and record heat were recorded November 11-16. Also, widespread dense fog was reported across coastal San Diego County on November 15. A brush fire was reported near Desert Hot Springs in the early morning hours on November 11.
• Wildfire and High Wind in Wyoming, November 15 to 16, 20211 death · $2.0 million · 104 kt wind · 10 eventsA combination of a cold front, a potent jet, and strong winds being mixed to the surface brought high winds to much of northern and central Wyoming.
• Wildfire in Texas, November 17, 20211 injured · 1 eventWorsening drought conditions along with periods of strong and gusty winds and low relative humidity values ahead of cold fronts resulted in initial attack wildfires across the Texas and Oklahoma Panhandles.
• Wildfire and High Wind in California, November 24 to 25, 2021$45,000 · 72 kt wind · 19 eventsWidespread Santa Ana winds occurred over the Thanksgiving Holiday. A wildfire was also reported near Santee.
• Wildfire and Drought in North Carolina, December 1 to 31, 2021$364,000 · 4 eventsAbnormally low precipitation totals during December 2021, combined with unusually warm average temperatures (6F-8F degree above normal) through the month across the Piedmont and foothills of northern North Carolina, allowed Severe Drought conditions (D2 per the U.S.
• Wildfire in Montana, December 1 to 4, 20213 eventsStrong winds continued to howl across the plains as December began, bringing widespread impacts to the region. These winds combined with an ongoing drought and resulting very dry fine fuels to create conditions ripe for the rapid spread and growth of fires that started.
• Wildfire in Texas, December 5 to 6, 20211 eventThe combination of an ongoing severe drought along with very strong winds and low relative humidity values resulted in a wildfire in the western Texas Panhandle.
• Wildfire and High Wind in Oklahoma, December 10, 2021$510,000 · 53 kt wind · 5 eventsA strong storm system with a tight pressure gradient led to high winds across much of western Oklahoma and western north Texas. Several fires were reported during the afternoon of the 10th, with numerous structures burned.
• Wildfire and High Wind in Texas, December 10, 2021$110,000 · 51 kt wind · 4 eventsA strong storm system with a tight pressure gradient led to high winds across much of western Oklahoma and western north Texas. Several fires were reported during the afternoon of the 10th, with numerous structures burned.
• Wildfire in Texas, December 10 to 13, 20212 eventsUnderlying drought, critical fuel dryness and elevated to critical fire weather combined to produce a fire environment supportive of significant fire activity. Extreme fire behavior and fast rate of spread was observed.
• Debris Flows and Flooding in California, December 13 to 14, 2021$23,000 · 71 kt wind · 53 eventsA strong low pressure system dropped southeast out of the Gulf of Alaska on December 12 and intensified off the Pacific Northwest coast on December 13 pulling up some deep moisture which was pushed into central California during the afternoon.
• Debris Flow and Flooding in California, December 13, 2021$2,000 · 11 eventsA low pressure system descended from the Gulf of Alaska southward along the entire Pacific Coast and tapped into sub-tropical moisture originating from the Central Pacific to drop heavy rain throughout the state.
• Wildfire and High Wind in Kansas, December 15 to 16, 20211 death · 73 kt wind · 64 eventsA very strong cold front approached the area from the northwest with a strong gradient and low level jet ahead of it out of the southwest to west prior to the frontal passage.
• Wildfire and Dust Storm in Colorado, December 15, 2021$200,000 · 96 kt wind · 7 eventsDuring the morning to early afternoon hours, an intense low pressure system moved away from the Colorado Front Range and across Eastern Colorado. This system was responsible for generating two rounds of high winds.
• Wildfire and High Wind in Oklahoma, December 15, 202167 kt wind · 11 eventsA powerful storm system tracked across the southern and central Plains on the 15th, bringing extreme wind speeds and multiple wildfires to the area.
• Wildfire and Dust Storm in Kansas, December 15 to 17, 20211 death · 4 injured · $615,000 · 104 kt wind · 32 eventsDuring the morning to mid-afternoon hours, an intense low pressure system moved away from the Colorado Front Range and across the Central High Plains. This system was responsible for generating two rounds of high winds in Northwest Kansas.
• Wildfire and Hail in Kansas, December 15 to 16, 20211 injured · 1.5 in hail · 52 eventsA very strong low pressure system tracked out of the Rockies and marched across the Central Plains into the Upper Mississippi Valley. Further up in the atmosphere, a SW to NE directional mid-level jet was present along with impressive lapse rates.
• Wildfire and Damaging Winds in Kansas, December 15 to 16, 20211 death · $1.8 million · 84 kt wind · 16 eventsA historic onslaught of swiftly-moving severe thunderstorms followed by several hours of intense/damaging non-convective winds that stirred up clouds of blowing dust and sparked a few large wildfires unfolded within this six-county North Central Kansas area on this Wednesday…
• Wildfire in Oklahoma, December 15 to 16, 20211 eventRecord high temperatures, very strong and gusty southerly wind, and low humidity combined with dormant, dry fine fuels to promote conditions that supported the rapid spread of wildfire across eastern Oklahoma on the 15th.
• Wildfire in Oklahoma, December 15 to 22, 20211 eventA potent storm system raced across Colorado and Kansas through the day, causing strong to extreme southwest to west winds across the area, but especially across the northern Texas and Oklahoma Panhandles.
• Wildfire in Texas, December 15 to 19, 20212 eventsA potent storm system raced across Colorado and Kansas through the day, causing strong to extreme southwest to west winds across the area, but especially across the northern Texas and Oklahoma Panhandles.
• Debris Flow and Flooding in Oregon, December 20 to 21, 20214 eventsHeavy rain fell across parts of northwest Oregon along with minor river flooding. The heaviest rain fell along and just north of a front that held nearly stationary from Newport to Albany to Mount Jefferson.
• Debris Flow and Flooding in California, December 23 to 24, 20218 eventsA deep upper trough with a warm subtropical moisture fetch in front of it pushed into central California during the evening of December 22 and brought a period of rain and higher elevation snow to the area which continued through the evening of December 23.
• Wildfire in Texas, December 28, 20211 eventWorsening drought conditions in the severe to extreme category along with strong southwest winds and low relative humidities during the afternoon and also receptive fuels contributed to a large wildfire in the western Texas Panhandle.
• Debris Flow and Winter Weather in California, December 29 to 30, 20215 eventsA low pressure system dropped slowly southward along the California coast on December 29 and 30 resulting in much of the area picking up between a quarter to half an inch of liquid precipitation.
• Wildfire in Oklahoma, December 29 to 31, 20211 eventExtreme drought conditions in the western Oklahoma Panhandle along with strong downsloping southwesterly winds and low afternoon relative humidity values and receptive fuels helped to contribute to a large grass fire in the western Oklahoma Panhandle.
• Wildfire and High Wind in Colorado, December 30, 20212 deaths · 12 injured · $2.0 billion · 94 kt wind · 4 eventsThe combination of very high winds and extremely dry conditions produced the most destructive wildfire in Colorado history ($2 Billion), the Marshall Fire. It was also one of the costliest fires in U.S. history.

Every billion-dollar disasterEvery storm of 2021Tornadoes in 2021

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.