EVERETT, MARCH 28: The Everett Fire Department responded to two structure fires within 10 minutes of each other during Wednesday’s lightning and thunderstorm. There were no injuries in either incident.
A rare thunderstorm was slated to hit Western Washington the night of Wednesday, March 26. As the storm swept through the North Sound, Everett and surrounding areas got hit with rain, hail and lightning.
Everett Fire responded to the first reported lightning strike at 8:15 p.m. in the Valley View neighborhood. A shed was reported to be on fire behind the main house. When firefighters arrived, they did not find an active fire but instead found evidence of a lightning strike, according to a press release.
The strike had compromised both a transformer and the home’s electrical system, including significant damage to the electrical box and melted circuit breaker switches.
Just 10 minutes later, crews were dispatched to a second fire at the 3200 block of Kromer Ave, where again, lighting was reported to have struck the building.
When firefighters arrived, they found a roof fire and were able to extinguish the flame before it spread to the rest of the home. While checking the residence, crews discovered significant damage, including to its electrical system.
Although these types of storms are unusual for our area, Everett Fire suggest the below during severe weather and lightning storms:
- Ensure your home has working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors
- Unplug appliances and electronics – electrical surges from lightning can damage them
- Avoid using TVs, landline telephones, bathtubs, water faucets, and sinks because wiring and metal pipes can conduct electricity if lightning strikes
- Remain indoors and steer clear of windows, doors, and conductive materials
- Install surge protectors for valuable electronics and consider whole-house protection systems
- Have a fire escape and emergency weather plan for your household
If your home is struck by lightning:
1. Call 911 for the fire department. Even if you don’t see flames, lightning can cause fires inside walls, attics, or electrical systems that may not be immediately visible.
2. Evacuate your home immediately if you smell smoke, see flames, or hear popping sounds.
3. Check for fire damage if it is safe to do so.
- Burning smells
- Scorch marks on outlets or electronics
- Smoke in the attic or near the roof
- Damage to electrical systems, appliances, or the structure
4. Do not touch outlets, light switches, or any plugged-in electronics. Lightning can cause hidden electrical damage or power surges that pose a shock or fire risk.
5. Turn off the power at the breaker if there’s no fire and you can do so safely.
6. Document any damage for insurance.
7. Have a licensed electrician and or a structural engineer assess your home for hidden damage.
Based on a press release from the Everett Fire Department.
