Lightning strike ignites Inverness home fire

Citrus County Fire Rescue

Inverness, Florida – At 9:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 16, 2025, Citrus County Fire Rescue (CCFR) was dispatched to a residence located on E. Riverbluff Ct. in Inverness due to a reported fire.

Firefighters arrived at the location to find a 1,000 square-foot residence, with fire showing from the roof and front attic area.

Firefighters quickly deployed a hose line through the front door, pulled ceiling materials to reach flames in the attic space, and cut power to the home. A search was conducted to confirm that all the home's occupants had exited the home.

The fire was under control within minutes, and damages to the home and its contents were estimated at $6,000. Damages were limited to the front roofline and attic area. The home was ventilated and checked for hazards before being turned back over to the owner. The last unit cleared the scene at 10:03 p.m. No injuries were reported.

The homeowner reported to fire rescue personnel that they had been away from the home when a storm passed through the area, and returned home to find the roof on fire.

Based on damage patterns and conditions at the scene, the fire is believed to have been caused by a lightning strike.

CCFR Safety Message
Florida leads the nation in lightning strikes. If lightning hits your home, evacuate your home immediately, and call 911. Even if a fire is not visible, lightning can ignite hidden areas in a attic or wiring. Always have your electrical system checked before restoring power after a suspected lightning strike.

IN THE EVENT OF A FIRE, CALL 9-1-1.

Citrus County Fire Rescue Contact Information
Business Office Location: 1520 N. Meadowcrest Blvd.. Crystal River, Florida 34429;
Non-Emergency Phone: (352) 527-5406.
Website: www.CitrusCountyFire.com
Social Media: x.com/CitrusCoFire and Facebook.com/CitrusCountyFireRescue.