More Than Two Dozen Displaced After Lightning Ignites MD Condo Fire

According to a report from WJZ, twenty-six residents were displaced after a lightning strike ignited a fire at a two-story Bel Air, Maryland, condominium Monday evening, leading to a partial collapse of the structure. 


The Harford County Fire Department said around 75 firefighters arrived to the two-alarm fire in the 1300 block of Sheridan Place at about 9:30 p.m. Around 50 residents evacuated. 

Harford Co., MD Fire & EMS/Twitter


Fire officials blamed lightning hitting the roof, which residents claimed to have heard, which sparked the fire on the roof and in the attic. After hearing the lightning strike, residents also said they started to smell smoke.

The roof collapsed to the third floor, forcing other floors to come crashing down. All residents escaped to safety, but one person was hospitalized.  

The building is considered a total loss.

RELATED

Construction Concerns: Lightning Protection

Fighting Structural Fires During Lightning Storms

Struck by Lightning

CA Fire Department Pilot-Testing Drone Response to ‘Unknown Type’ Fire Calls

The San Bernardino County Fire Protection District has launched a pilot program making drones the first responders for "unknown type fire" calls.
Mike Dugan and company talking building constructon and disasters

Humpday Hangout: Building Codes and Disasters

Mike Dugan and the panel regulars will talk with their guests about building codes and how proper building construction can mitigate the damage from natural…