FRANKLIN COUNTY, Wash. – A thunderstorm last night led to a busy evening for Franklin County Fire District #3 (FCFD#3) crews, who responded to multiple calls due to fires and lightning activity.
The initial call came just after 7:30 p.m. for a large stubble field fire near Pasco Kahlotus Road and Murphy Road. The fire covering 33 acres was contained by 9:40 p.m.
As the night progressed, additional reports of fires, many attributed to lightning, flooded in, FCFD#3 said.
With resources stretched, a wildland strike team from neighboring agencies was called to assist.
Many of the reported fires were across the county line in Walla Walla County, where a large fire illuminated the night sky.
FCFD#3 responded to nine separate calls throughout the evening. Only one fire was confirmed within their district, and another in FCFD#5.
Crews checked several locations, including Juniper Dunes, Sagemoore/Dayton, Alan Road and Highway 395, where smoke and fire were visible from Walla Walla County.
The storm’s impact resulted in two confirmed fires in Franklin County and seven good intent calls for fires located in Walla Walla County, FCFD#3 added.
