South Walton home suffers 'significant damage' in fire caused by lightning strike
A home in South Walton was heavily damaged Friday night after a lightning strike caused the residence to go up in flames.
South Walton Fire District crews responded to the home on Beach Front Trail around 6 p.m. after a 911 caller reported smoke throughout their residence, according to a SWFD news release.
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When firefighters arrived, they found smoke and flames showing from a large, multi-story home. The residents were home at the time and were confirmed to be outside of the house.
Panama City Beach Fire Rescue, Walton County Fire Rescue and Destin Fire Control District assisted the South Walton Fire District in putting out the fire.
While battling the blaze, interior crews found heavy smoke and fire on the upper floors of the home, according to the SWFD. Firefighting efforts continued for about one hour until interior crews reported they had knocked down the flames.
The fire was out at 8:15 p.m. and no injuries were reported. Firefighters also reunited two pet turtles found on the first floor of the residence with their owners.
The SWFD Fire Marshal and State Fire Marshal's Office determined the fire was likely caused by lightning based on evidence and testimony provided by the residents. The home suffered significant damage, the SWFD said.
This article originally appeared on Northwest Florida Daily News: South Walton home set on fire by lightning strike
