Lightning Strike Ignites Lilburn House Fire

Officials are blaming a lightning strike for a house fire on Lake Lucerne Drive in Lilburn, where a strong thunderstorm moved through on Wednesday evening.

In the height of the storm around 8:41 p.m., an occupant of the home called to report the fire. The home is located in the 1930 block of Lake Lucerne Drive.

By the time firefighters reached the home seven minutes later, the man and six other people, including two children, were safely outside, according to a press release from Gwinnett Fire and Emergency Services. There were no injuries reported.

The home, however, had heavy fire showing from the second floor. Crews battled the blaze back, but there is significant damage to the home, including smoke, heat and water damage throughout, officials said.

Officials learned later that a man was putting his two children to bed upstairs, "'when they heard a loud boom." The trio retreated downstairs, and minutes later the smell of smoke took over.

"They discovered flames engulfing an upstairs bedroom and quickly called 9-1-1," said Capt. Tommy Rutledge, in a press release. "The man tried to douse the flames with a portable fire extinguisher, but was unsuccessful."

By 8:58 p.m., firefighters had the fire under control, and it was determined that lightning actually did cause the fire, according to a press release. The storm, , packed high winds, heavy rain, and intense lightning.

In these summer months when intense pop-up storms are numerous, firefighters want residents to remain safe and have a plan for severe weather.

They urge residents to remember to: Check your home if you suspect a lightning strike. Evacuate immediately if you detect smoke or fire. Call 9-1-1 quickly, and stay clear of active, downed power lines.