(Le Mars) — Firefighters were called to the residence at 2490 5th Avenue SE for a house that was on fire. Fire Chief Dave Schipper says the fire was reported at around 4:10 a.m. The structure was hit by a lightning strike, which according to Schipper, created a hole in the roof, and the backside of the home was on fire.
Upon arrival everyone had safely evacuated the home. There was visible fire on the southeast corner exterior of the home. The fire had extended from the lower level up the back of the home to the roof. A propane tank located along side of the house was also venting off and feeding the fire.
Firefighters made an aggressive exterior attack and knocked the fire down very quickly. Once the fire was knocked down the propane tank was shut-off and rendered safe. Firefighters made entry into the home and encountered light smoke throughout the house. The attic and other areas were checked for fire and no fire was located. An aerial ladder truck was used to access the
roof on the north side of the home where there was a hole located in the shingles. Firefighters made sure there was no fire in the roof in that area.
There were some electric issues in the home and neighborhood. Mid-American energy was called to the scene along with electricians to evaluate the electric service.
The origin of the fire was determined to be on the north upper roof and southeast lower corner of the home. The cause of the fire was determined to be accidental. The most probable cause for the fire was a lightning strike during severe weather that was occurring at the time of the fire. Lightning struck the north roof of the home and went through the electrical service, phone service and vent piping. The strike exited the home in the southeast corner where there was a propane tank for a fireplace. The strike popped the relief valve on the propane tank in this location.
Firefighters were on scene for approximately 1½ hours. The Le Mars Fire-Rescue Department was assisted at the scene by the Le Mars Ambulance, Le Mars Police, Plymouth County Sheriff, and Mid-American Energy.
The home will be able to remain occupied and damage amounts are still being determined.
(photos contributed.)
