House struck by lightning

- Wed 11th Oct 2006

Sudden storms on Hayling this morning have had most islanders staying inside in the dry, but not the residents of Old School Drive who turned out to see the damage caused when one of the neighbouring houses was struck by lightning at 9.40 this morning.

During the storm, an immense "crack" was heard, signalling that the house in Old School Drive had been struck by lightning.  The bolt of electricity entered one of the houses gables, smashing through brick and tile before connecting with the hot water tank.

The hot water tank in the attic then caught fire, as seen in the accompanying pictures.  Hayling's volunteer fire crew attended the scene and brought the situation quickly under control. 

Joan Gayle, who lives in the council owned property said 'I didn't realise my house had been hit until my neighbour phoned me and I ran outside and saw bricks and tiles everywhere and flames leaping out of my roof.'

By forum user, Mat