CG lightning can occur with both positive and negative polarity. The polarity is that of the charge in the region that originated the lightning leaders. An average bolt of negative lightning carries an electric current of 30,000 amperes (30 kA), and transfers 15 coulombs of electric charge and 500 megajoules of energy.
Statewide, 19 wildfires greater than 1,000 acres in area are currently raging, according to the NIFC. The active fires have ravaged more than 630,000 acres, destroying approximately 200 homes and threatening another 12,000, according to Washington state officials.
SEATTLE â Washington state is banning the sale of televisions, computers or residential upholstered furniture containing a toxic chemical flame retardant starting today. The new law is one of a handful to take effect New Yearâs Day. Another law prohibits the use of lead wheel weights used to balance tires. State officials say about 40 metric tons of lead wheel weights fall off of vehicles every year in Washington.