A Cinco Ranch home was wiped out Tuesday night after what firefighters say was a lightning strike during a severe storm. Three firefighters were treated while battling the fast-moving flames, and crews later declared the house a total loss.
Crews Battled Roaring Flames but Could Not Save the Home
Video from the scene and on-air reporting showed huge orange flames punching through the roof and thick black smoke filling the sky, according to KPRC Click2Houston. Firefighters from the Willow Fork and Katy departments climbed ladders and doused the structure, but they were unable to save the house.
KPRC Click2Houston reports that no one was home when the fire started. Two firefighters were taken to a hospital with heat-related injuries and a third was treated at the scene. Willow Fork officials told the station it was the fourth possible lightning-strike fire in the area during the storm.
Storms Hammered the Area With Lightning
The system that moved through Houston triggered multiple severe-thunderstorm warnings and, meteorologists say, produced thousands of lightning strikes, conditions that can increase the odds of fires from direct strikes. The Houston Chronicle reports that early-June heat and humidity often help fuel intense, fast-moving storms with frequent lightning in Southeast Texas.
Neighbors Heard Booms, Then Saw the Roof on Fire
People living across the street told reporters they heard "a few big booms" before seeing flames and rushed outside to check whether anyone was inside. "My mom came over and she was like, 'Oh my gosh,'" one neighbor said, in remarks captured by KPRC Click2Houston.
Officials Remind Residents How to Ride Out a Storm Safely
Lightning can strike more than 10 miles away from a thunderstorm, so the National Weather Service keeps its guidance simple: "When thunder roars, go indoors" and stay inside for at least 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder. Heat and humidity can also raise the risk of heat-related illness for first responders working in heavy gear. The National Weather Service offers additional lightning and heat safety tips.
Fire Investigators Working to Confirm the Cause
The Fort Bend County Fire Marshal’s Office is listed as the lead agency on the investigation. Local fire officials say investigators are still working to confirm a cause and have asked anyone with video or information to come forward. Officials did not immediately release the identity of the homeowners as the probe continues.
