Overnight Storms Wreak Havoc in Clearwater

Clearwater, FL — Overnight storms that rolled through the Clearwater area Tuesday did more than light up the sky and dump a little rain. They’re also being blamed for a house fire, a downed tree and a temporary road flood or two.

Lightning is believed to be the cause for a fire at 312 Magnolia Drive late Tuesday night. According to Clearwater Fire & Rescue, the department received a call about 10 p.m. about a “blaze that may have been triggered by a lightning strike,” an email from the agency said.

The people inside the home made it out OK, the agency noted. The fire was contained to the attic and roof areas with no injuries reported.

See Also:

• Flooded Roads Add Up to Danger, Weather Service Warns in Video
• Lightning Safety: What You Need to Know

Reports also came in about a downed tree near Glenmoor Road North in the area of Glenmoor Court.

Standing water was also reported at Myrtle Avenue and Druid Road. Another water-related issue was reported near State Road 60 and McMullen Booth Road, the agency noted. “Both issues resulted after heavy rains swept through the area.”

As Florida’s rainy season kicks into high gear, afternoon and evening thunderstorms will become a part of the landscape, forecasters at the National Weather Service say. Earlier this week, the agency released a video warning of the dangers motorists face when driving through flooded areas.

Tampa Bay area residents are also warned to take care when lightning strikes are evident. Several house firesconnected to lightning have been reported this summer. These strikes can also prove fatal in some cases.

Storm chances remain in the forecast throughout the week in Clearwater and throughout Tampa Bay. Highs throughout the rest of the workweek are expected to hit the low 90s.

For an extended forecast in your neighborhood, visit your local Patch’s homepage.

How did your neighborhood fare in Tuesday night's storms? Tell us by commenting below!

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