Lightning strike sets Lincoln home on fire

Powerful storms this morning brought damage to parts of eastern Nebraska.

In Lincoln, thousands of people lost power and one home was struck by lightning.

That lightning strike hit a home near 27th and Pine Lake just before 6 a.m.

It created a gaping hole in the roof.

Thankfully, all three people inside got out safely.

Lincoln Fire and Rescue says working in storms is difficult, especially when they are racing against time before the next wave of storms comes.

Lightning striking a house is rare, it’s only happened twice in the last 10 months.

“You know, these lightning strikes, they can be quick and not cause much damage or pretty heavy, and in this case I’m a little concerned that it may have struck and done damage to multiple places throughout the house,” said Battalion Chief Jim Bopp with Lincoln Fire and Rescue.

Black Hills and LES shut down all energy sources to the home.

Most damage was caused by water and smoke; it’s estimated at $50,000.