Lightning strike causes fire to W. Nautilus Dr., Citrus Springs residence
Photos courtesy of CCFR.
Citrus Springs, Florida - At 5:17 pm on Sunday afternoon, July 16, 2023, Citrus County Fire Rescue responded to a W. Nautilus Drive, Citrus Springs residence due to a report of a fire. Firefighters arrived on scene to find an approximately 1,500 square foot residence, with light smoke showing from the roof line.
The Engine 14 crew from the Citrus Springs Fire Station arrived on scene at 5:22 pm and assumed command. They made access into the home by way of the laundry room and found thick, black smoke banking from the ceiling down to waist level throughout the residence, and smoldering furniture, blankets and drywall in the living room.
Firefighters secured the power and pulled a pre-connected hose line to begin extinguishment. Additional personnel arrived from surrounding stations and assisted with the search for potential fire extension, ventilating the residence, and mopping up. Searches revealed no occupants inside the residence. The power company removed the meter. The fire was brought under control by 5:46 pm, and the last unit cleared the scene at 6:39 pm.
The tenants advised firefighters that they were not home at the time the fire started, but a neighbor had informed them that lightning had struck close to their residence, and a short time after the lightning strike, the neighbor had gone outside and found smoke coming from the home's eves and called for help.
Upon investigation, the electrical receptacle behind the couch was burned, and it appeared that the fire was accidental.
No injuries were reported. Damages to the home were estimated at approximately $53,000.
Firefighters from the Connell Heights, Citrus Springs, Pine Ridge, Kensington, and Hernando fire stataions responded to the scene, along with a Safety Captain and a rescue unit.
In an emergency within Citrus County, Florida, Citrus County Fire Rescue can be contacted 24/7 by dialing 911. For routine business during business hours, contact Citrus County Fire Rescue by phone at (352) 527-5406. Visit the agency's social media sites at www.CitrusCountyFire.com, Twitter.com/CitrusCoFire, or Facebook.com/CitrusCountyFireRescue.