Lightning Strike Sparks House Fire During Recent Storms

Lightning has been the cause of several house fires in Barrow County in the past few weeks. The most recent occurred April 15, when a lightning strike ignited a fire in the basement of a home on Manning Gin Road.

“We are entering the time of year when storms are becoming more frequent,” Lt. Rob Nowakowski said in a news release issued by . “Everyone needs to be aware when thunderstorms are in the area. Lightning is dangerous, and many of the recent storms have contained large amounts of cloud to ground lightning.”

At 10:31 p.m. April 15, communications officers with county emergency services received a 911 call reporting a structure fire at 662 Manning Gin Road. Engines 1 and 3, Meds 1 and 3, and Battalion 1 responded.

“Upon arrival, firefighters found smoke coming from the basement of the home,” Nowakowski said in the release. “After entering the structure, firefighters found they could not safely fight fire from inside, and the fire was quickly extinguished from outside."

No injuries were reported and the American Red Cross arrived to assist the residents who were displaced as a result of the fire.

On Thunderstorm Safety Day, observed Feb. 8 during Severe Weather Awareness Week, Barrow County Emergency Services released information residents can use to stay safe when lightning may strike. .