Lightning Exploded House's Chimney, Set Building On Fire: Report

WAUWATOSA, WI -- Authorities in Wauwatosa say a family managed to escape their home without injury after a bolt of lightning struck their home.

According to a WTMJ report, a storm front moving into the area sent a bolt of lighting down to the roof and chimney of the home, causing the chimney to explode. Reports indicated that a large hole was also blown into the home's roof.

The home that was struck is located near 72nd Street and Hillcrest Drive.

When Wauwatosa first responders arrived just after 5 p.m., firefighters quickly quelled the flames, and determined that the attic sustained significant smoke and fire damage.

"All of a sudden, the entire house started shaking, and it was like the lightning was almost in the house," neighbor Emma Hermsen said in a WISN report. "There was purple light everywhere."

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