firestorm

American  

[fahyuhr-stawrm] / ˈfaɪərˌstɔrm /

Or fire storm

noun

1. an atmospheric phenomenon, caused by a large fire, in which the rising column of air above the fire draws in strong winds often accompanied by rain.

2. a raging fire of great intensity, as one fueled by oil or gas, that spreads rapidly.

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firestorm British  

/ ˈfaɪəˌstɔːm /

noun

1. an uncontrollable blaze sustained by violent winds that are drawn into the column of rising hot air over the burning area: often the result of heavy bombing

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Etymology

Origin of firestorm

First recorded in 1575–85; fire + storm

Example Sentences

Her brother worries that she and the 30 others who died in the January 2025 firestorm are being forgotten amid a focus on recovery and rebuilding.

From Los Angeles Times

The remarks landed as a pointed rejoinder to Chalamet, who sparked a firestorm last month after appearing to question the cultural relevance of classical performance arts.

From Barron's

The firestorm plowed through the Pacific Palisades and into Malibu, burning 23,400 acres and leveling more than 6,800 structures, including many homes.

From Los Angeles Times

The closing of the Pali Post, as community members affectionately called it, was a direct result of the destruction wrought by the January 2025 firestorm.

From Los Angeles Times

Two months after the anniversary of the devastating Southern California firestorms, several legislators at the state Capitol unveiled a package of bills aimed at preventing wildfires and lessening their harms.

From Los Angeles Times