Lightning Causes Multiple Fires in Gwinnett

Wednesday evening’s strong thunderstorms sparked several fire reports from Duluth to Auburn, according to Gwinnett Fire, including an apartment fire that displaced occupants from eight units.

No injuries were reported.

Gwinnett Fire Capt. Tommy Rutledge said in a media release the department’s emergency response plan was active during the height of the storms, which moved through the county after 6 p.m. Wednesday night.

Here’s a brief synopsis on Wednesday’s fires (from media release):

>> HOUSE FIRE: Firefighters responded at 5:54 p.m. to a report of a lightning strike in the 2700 block of Old Coach Road, NW in Duluth. Crews found a working fire in the wall and floor system on arrival. There were no injuries reported.
>> APARTMENT FIRE: Firefighters responded at 6:05 p.m. to a report of an apartment fire due to lightning in the 2200 block of Howell Trace, NW in Duluth. Crews found moderate smoke showing from the attic of a two-story building on arrival. Firefighters worked fast to contain the fire to the attic space. Occupants in eight units (entire building) were displaced due to the damage in the attic and because utilities were cut to the building. The scene was turned over to apartment management. There were no injuries reported.
>> HOUSE FIRE: Firefighters responded at 7:25 p.m. to a report of a house fire due to lightning in the 3400 block of Clear Stream Run, NE in Auburn. Crews found a light haze of smoke on the interior on arrival. There were no injuries reported.
>> HOUSE FIRE: Firefighters responded at 6:39 p.m. to a report of a lightning strike and fire in the 6000 block of Lanier Heights Circle, NE in Buford. Crews found light smoke on the interior on arrival. Crews found damage to the ceiling and an air handling unit. There was no active fire when the fire department arrived.
>> HOUSE FIRE: Firefighters responded at 8:03 p.m. to a report of a lightning strike in the 3200 block of Bridle Brool Drive, NE in Auburn. The caller reported smoke coming from the outlets. Firefighters found no sign of active fire or smoke on arrival. There were no injuries reported.