Quick responses have been key for Coastal Fire Centre crews so far this summer, with most fire starts on the Island able to be dealt with swiftly, including this fire in early June east of Nanaimo. (BC Wildfire Service)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

fire season

‘Our first lightning caused fire:’ brief, intense storm brought dozens of lightning strikes to Island & Coast

Jun 19, 2025 | 1:53 PM

NANAIMO — It didn’t last long, but a series of isolated but intense storm downpours which moved through the region Wednesday came with an extra punch.

The Coastal Fire Centre reports the unsettled weather brought upwards of 30 lightning strikes to the region, ranging from the Lower Mainland to the Sunshine Coast.

“The 30 lightning strikes did come with rain, so that usually reduces the chance of holdover fires, but we always ask the public to keep an eye out for any smoke, any indications of fire,” Jennifer Lohmeyer, fire information officer, said.

A majority of the strikes occurred on the Sunshine Coast, and are believed responsible for at least one fire start.

Coastal Fire Centre crews were called out to Read Island, northeast of Campbell River, around 2 p.m. on Wednesday, June 18 after smoke was seen coming from the remote inlet Island.

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Lohmeyer said they made quick work of the situation.

“We do suspect that it is our first lightning caused fire of the year in the coastal Fire Centre. One initial attack crew and one helicopter attended the fire, and it was declared out by 5 p.m. that day.”

She said quick reporting was key in the Read Island fire, and is critical in other situations too.

Anyone who sees smoke or fire in the backcountry is asked to call *5555 on their cell phone to report it to the BC Wildfire Service, or use the Service’s app on any Apple or Android device.

As of 2 p.m. on Thursday, June 19, just five fires are listed as burning in the Coastal Fire Centre, but all are considered under control.

— with files from Jon de Roo, 97.3 The Eagle

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