Lightning strike believed to be cause of Stearns County house fire
[Stearns County Sheriff's Office]
Authorities say lightning is believed to have started a house fire in Farming Township Tuesday.
According to the Stearns County Sheriff's Office, deputies responded to a reported house fire near County Road 40 and County Road 9 at about 2:47 p.m.
The homeowner told authorities he was in the garage when he heard a loud bang and saw a bright flash. He then smelled smoke and noticed some siding on his house was melted.
Firefighters arrived and extinguished the fire, which was contained to the roof and ceiling. However, authorities reported heavy smoke and ceiling damage inside the home.
No injuries were reported.
As of Wednesday afternoon, lightning was believed to be the cause of the fire.