A HOUSE in Eastbourne suffered serious damage after it was reportedly struck by lightning during dramatic overnight thunderstorms.
East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service was called to Selmeston Road at 12.03am on Saturday, June 27, following reports that the roof of a property was on fire.
Four fire engines were sent to the scene as firefighters tackled the blaze, while Joint Fire Control received five emergency 999 calls from concerned residents.
Fire crews made good progress during the early hours, with an update issued at 1.30am confirming that the fire had been brought under control. Firefighters remained at the property to check for hidden hot spots and arranged a further inspection at 6am.
A thermal imaging camera was later used during the re-inspection to ensure no remaining pockets of heat were present. Fire officials confirmed none were found and the incident was formally closed.
The overnight emergency came as lightning strikes swept across East Sussex, with fire crews also dealing with a separate house fire in Bexhill believed to have been caused by the storm.
Despite the severity of the incident, there were no reports of any injuries.
The property is understood to have suffered serious damage as a result of the fire.
East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service thanked residents for avoiding the area while emergency crews worked at the scene.
