The Storm that Started it all

Had a heck of a good lightning storm this morning.  Turned out to be one of the top ten percent storms in Rogue Valley history as far as lightning strikes.  And sure enough, within hours, there were smoke columns on every horizon.

This lightning storm and the following fires set the stage for the rest of the summer.  It obstructed views, socked in valleys, and kept me super busy at work for the rest of the summer.  This particular picture is taken from the bottom of Powell Creek looking up at what would become the Spencer Fire.  We were out there for a cider club pick up at Pacifica.  Empanadas and cider for dinner with a great view.  Very nice!