California has prepositioned firefighting resources across the state in anticipation of thunderstorms bringing heavy rain, dry lightning and gusty winds that could spark new wildfires. The move follows August’s “lightning siege,” which produced more than 110,000 lightning strikes, 530 fires and nearly 29,000 acres burned. The National Weather Service said warm, dry conditions combined with tropical moisture could trigger thunderstorms through next week. While some rain may be beneficial, the potential for dry lightning remains high. “Lightning can strike with little or no warning, sparking dangerous wildfires,” CAL FIRE Director Joe Tyler said, urging residents to stay alert, follow evacuation orders and take lightning safety seriously.