Buckhead house fire believed to be caused by lightning

ATLANTA - Storms rolled through Atlanta Wednesday evening packing with powerful winds and dangerous lightning. At the height of the storm, Atlanta firefighters were called to a home on Ridgewood Road in Buckhead where flames were shooting through the roof. Fire officials say it was likely caused by lightning.

When firefighters arrived at the home flames and heavy smoke were coming from the attic. Firefighters tried to knock down the flames and get inside to see if anyone was trapped. Just as they determined it was all clear the roof started to cave in. “The Battalion Chief saw it was about to happen and moved everyone out of the home and off the roof to make sure all the firefighters were safe,” says Sgt. Cortez Stafford with Atlanta Fire.

Fire officials say if anyone ever thinks their home may have taken a direct hit by lighting, don't take any chances. “If you see or smell smoke, or even if you're not sure, get out of the house and call 911, even if you can't get up to the attic to check, we'll take a look. It's better to be safe than sorry,” says Sgt. Cortez.