Thunderstorms Cause Damage in Tri-Cities Area Monday

KENNEWICK, Wash. (AP) — A series of thunderstorms sparked fires and knocked down trees and power lines throughout the Columbia Basin.

A direct lightning strike to a home in Richland on Monday night ignited the house, causing heavy damage.

The Tri-City Herald reports that a Pasco police officer had a close call when a lightning bolt struck the ground near his patrol car, with his dashcam capturing the blast.

Late Monday afternoon, the National Weather Service sent out a red-flag warning for the entire lower Columbia Basin of Washington and Oregon.

Wind gusts of up to 52 mph were reported in parts of Franklin County and up to about 30 mph in the Tri-Cities, downing some trees and power lines.

No serious injuries were reported.