Lightning Blamed for Rochester House Fire

Rochester, MN (KROC AM News)  - A Rochester home was apparently hit by a lightning strike early Thursday, leading to the evacuation of its occupants.

Rochester fire crews were sent to the residence at 1914 50th St NW around 4:00 a.m. and found light smoke coming from the roof eaves/soffit area.

The home was evacuated and firefighters discovered a fire in the attic. It was put out right away and the preliminary damage estimate was put at $20,000.  

Investigators found a hole in the roof area of the home, likely caused by a bolt of lightning. The occupants also reported hearing a “loud boom” and then smelling smoke.

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