The dramatic photograph from Whidbey Island Washington is unlikely to be sky lanterns. The video is far less clear and, were it the only record, would suggest a lantern. However, that does not appear to be the case in this situation.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UmbER8L9yiIStory Source:
http://www.whidbeynewstimes.com/news/199618741.html