Lightning Strikes, Roof Goes Up in Flames – Fire Ravages London Home
House Roof Devastated in Midnight Blaze
A lightning strike set one London house ablaze, completely destroying its roof and damaging half the first floor. The fire also spread to a neighbouring property’s roof, leaving both homes scarred. Before firefighters arrived, nine people evacuated the three affected houses. Luckily, no injuries were reported.
Rare Lightning Fire Sparks Midnight Panic
The London Fire Brigade confirmed the blaze was sparked by a rare lightning strike during a fierce thunderstorm. A Brigade spokesperson said: “The occupants were sleeping when they were startled awake by a loud bang and a fire in the loft space.”
“Lightning-caused fires are extremely rare, but they can cause significant damage,” they added.
Fire Brigade Battles Blaze through Early Hours
The emergency call came in at 12:05 a.m., and crews battled the flames until 1:52 a.m. Ten fire engines and about 70 firefighters from Dagenham, Hornchurch, Barking, and nearby stations responded. Their efforts kept the fire contained and prevented injuries.
