Crime & Safety

Lightning Sparks House Fires in Dacula, Duluth

The fires damaged the attics of both homes and displaced occupants, according to the Gwinnett Fire Department.

Gwinnett firefighters responded to two lightning-ignited house fires as strong thunderstorms moved through portions of Gwinnett County Thursday night.

One fire was reported by an occupant in a home in the 3500 block of Greenside Court in Dacula.

The fire, reported just after 10:30 p.m., damaged the attic, Gwinnett Fire Capt. Tommy Rutledge reported in a news release.

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Firefighters contained the fire to the attic, but the second floor sustained smoke and water damage, Rutledge said. The occupants were displaced from the home due to the damage. There were no injuries.

Another fire sparked by a lightning strike in the 3000 block of Oak Hampton Way in Duluth caused extensive damage to the attic and displaced three adults and two children.

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The Duluth fire was reported in a 911 call about 9:26 p.m. by an occupant after lightning struck the roof, Rutledge said in the news release. Three adult occupants inside the home reported a loud boom and the power going off. 

The male homeowner saw the roof vent pipes fall to the ground outside. When he went to check the attic, he noticed an orange glow from the fire. A neighbor was also knocking at the door to alert them to the fire. The occupants escaped, and all were outside safe when the fire department arrived, Rutledge said.

As the threat of lightning storms and severe weather increases over the spring and summer months, Gwinnett Fire officials suggested following safety rules:

  • Monitor weather conditions and stay alert to your surroundings at all times. Be prepared to take cover if conditions worsen.
  • Know the difference between a Severe Thunderstorm Watch and a Severe Thunderstorm Warning.  Consider purchasing a NOAA Weather Radio to get up-to-date weather information and warnings. 
  • Turn off and even unplug electrical appliances until the storm passes. Avoid being caught outdoors during a thunderstorm. 
  • If you suspect a lightning strike to your home, be sure to check the basement and attic if applicable. Be ready to escape if you detect the presence of smoke or fire.


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