An early morning thunderstorm Sunday, 24 is the likely culprit for a pair of fires in the Martin Farms development of Albertville and Otsego.
The thunderstorm swept through the area around 6 a.m. with lightning strikes hitting north, mainly, of Interstate 94.
Two homes were gutted by fires early this morning caused by a lightning strike. (Submitted photo)
One of the bolts, witnesses believe, struck the home of the Jones family in the 12000 block of 76th Street Northeast, taking down the house “within moments,” according to reports on social media.
The fire spread, due to heat and breezy conditions caused by the storm, to a neighboring home, owned by the Wade family. Firefighters were able to salvage much of that structure, but the home will be a major loss due to water, smoke and fire damage, neighbors said.
The Albertville Fire Department, St. Michael Fire and Rescue, Monticello Fire Department and ELk River Fire Department were among those assisting at the scene. Local ambulance and the Wright County Sheriff’s Office also were there to close down the neighborhood to local traffic and assist with any injuries. No injuries were reported.
Residents are asked to continue to stay away from the area, as it is still an emergency scene.
The Albertville Fire Department has been contacted for an official report.
Friends and neighbors quickly set up two fundraising sites for the families.