Lightning strike results in 27K gallons of water used in Jefferson Twp. house fire

A total of 27,000 gallons of water were used to extinguish a house fire after a Jefferson Twp. home was struck by lightning Monday night.

>> Flood watches, warnings and advisories in effect; showers, severe storm threats continue

Firefighters from 17 neighboring jurisdictions responded to the 3700 block of Liberty Ellerton Road around 8:40 p.m., per initial reports.

Fire officials say the home was nearly 1500 feet off the roadway and away from fire hydrants, which affected the water supply and resulted in the massive mutual aid and nearby tankers being requested.

The family that lives in the house told our crew on scene that the fire started in the mechanical room in the basement and went through the house after it was struck by lightning.

Showers and storms, some severe, moved through the Miami Valley Monday, resulting in flooding, downed power lines and trees throughout the area.

Crews remained on scene into Tuesday morning putting the fire out.

Damage estimates were not immediately available, though fire officials say the first and second floors of the home sustained a significant amount of damage.

No injuries were reported, and the family, as well as a cat were able to make it out.

The fire remains under investigation.

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