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.
Here's Why the Deadly Washington State Mudslide Happened Huge rainfall totals and river power combined to cut through weak glacial settlements. The hillside near Oso, Wash., that gave way on March 22, killing at least eight (update: now 14, as of Tuesday morning) and leaving another 100-plus people missing, has a history of slidingâboth ancient and recent.