Lightning strike causes house to set on fire
A lightning strike was believed to have caused a house fire in Watford.
Fire crews were called to Cassiobury Drive at about 05:30 BST.
A passer-by alerted residents to a blaze in the roof and everyone was safely evacuated.
The Met Office warned of overnight thunderstorms in parts of Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire and Essex.
Engines from Watford and Garston were sent, along with an aerial platform. No injuries were reported.
Four crews took about 45 minutes to put out the blaze.
Watch commander Mark Woodward, from Watford Fire Station, said: "Our crews were faced with a fairly substantial fire in the roof.
"We sent in two teams in breathing apparatus to attack the fire from inside the building, and they were able to successfully stop the fire before it spread too far.
"Fortunately, a passer-by had alerted the residents to the fire and everyone was safely out of the building when we arrived at the scene.
"From talking to the residents and looking at the pattern of the fire, we believe the fire was started by a lightning strike."
Follow Beds, Herts and Bucks news on Facebook, Instagram and X. Got a story? Email eastofenglandnews@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 0800 169 1830
