Beloit Fire Department Responds to Residential Fire Caused by Lightning

According to an update from the Beloit Fire Department, this morning crews responded to a residential fire at 12:20 a.m. in the 400 block of Portland Avenue. The residents woke up to lightning striking their home, and they were able to safely evacuate with their pets prior to the Fire Department’s arrival. Upon arrival, the first crews found smoke coming from the attic area. The fire was in the walls and very difficult to contain immediately. The cause of the fire has been determined to be lightning. Damage estimates are unavailable at this time. The American Red Cross is assisting the residents. Also assisting with this incident includes the Town of Beloit, Janesville, Clinton and South Beloit fire departments.