Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Today in History: Lightning Strike Ignites Blackwater Fire in Wyoming

8/18/2025

32 6

Summary

Story summary

On August 18, 1937, a lightning strike ignited the Blackwater Fire in Shoshone National Forest, Wyoming, resulting in the deaths of 15 firefighters. A sudden change in wind direction caused the fire to spread rapidly, trapping firefighters in a firestorm. This incident remains the deadliest wildfire for U.S. firefighters between 1910 and 2013.

1 of 1

Story summary

On August 18, 1937, a lightning strike ignited the Blackwater Fire in Shoshone National Forest, Wyoming, resulting in the deaths of 15 firefighters. A sudden change in wind direction caused the fire to spread rapidly, trapping firefighters in a firestorm. This incident remains the deadliest wildfire for U.S. firefighters between 1910 and 2013.