Lightning Strike Sparks House Fire in Waterloo

A residential fire in the Town of Waterloo on Wednesday night left a home with significant damage, though no injuries were reported.

According to the Seneca County Sheriff's Office, the fire broke out at 55 Border City Road around 9:40 p.m. Firefighters from the Border City Fire Department, with assistance from the Waterloo and Geneva Fire Departments, responded to the scene.

Upon arrival, crews observed smoke coming from the roof and second story of the home. Firefighters worked to locate and contain the fire, bringing it under control after checking for possible extension in the walls and ceiling.

Investigators from the Seneca County Fire Investigation Team and the New York State Fire Investigation Team later determined the fire was caused by a lightning strike.

As emergency crews worked, Border City Road was temporarily closed at multiple intersections for approximately two and a half hours. The Finger Lakes Railway was also notified to halt inbound train traffic due to hose lines obstructing the tracks.

The fire and subsequent overhaul efforts resulted in heavy damage throughout the home. While the Red Cross was contacted for assistance, the homeowners were able to make their own arrangements for lodging.

Authorities did not report any injuries related to the incident.