THUNDER BAY – A local family escaped a structural fire caused by a lightning strike with limited damage to their home and no injuries, Thunder Bay Fire Rescue reports.
Responders were dispatched to a report of a lightning strike at a Dog Lake Road residence shortly before 9 a.m. Monday morning.
Crews called a second alarm after observing smoke and fire coming from the building upon arrival at the scene.
A large blue flame emanating from the side of the house ignited its front deck, reported platoon chief Jo Rucchin.
An aggressive initial attack by the first arriving crew quickly brought the fire under control, preventing it from spreading further. Damage was limited to the exterior of the home, and no occupants were injured or displaced.
The fire was caused when the lightning strike ruptured the natural gas line, responders later determined.
A total of 22 personnel responded to the event.
