CLEARWATER, Fla. — Clearwater residents had to flee their homes on Saturday after a lightning strike ignited a fire, city officials said.
Clearwater Fire and Rescue Department crews responded to the house fire at 5:45 a.m. at 1321 Murray Ave.
The preliminary investigation shows that a lightning strike to the rear deck of the property started the fire as storms rolled through the area.
The residents were able to escape the house before the arrival of firefighters, city officials said.
Clearwater firefighters kept the flames from spreading from the back part of the house, officials added.
No injuries were reported.
Hillsborough County crews work six days a week to improve stormwater drainage
The ongoing restoration work is part of a larger effort by Hillsborough County Public Works aimed at mitigating flooding risks throughout the area. Officials are hopeful that these improvements will provide a sense of safety during this hurricane season.
