KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Overland Park Fire Department says two fires within an hour of each other were likely caused by lightning strikes.
The first fire was reported just after 11:00 p.m. near 166th Street & Rosewood Street.
The first units on scene reported flames visible from a vent on the first floor of the two-story, single family home. Everyone got out safely.
The fire was contained to a small area in a family room and basement stairway.
Investigators believe lightning traveled through and ignited a flexible natural gas line next to a cold air return vent.
The family was able to go back inside their home after the fire was put out.
While crews were on that scene, firefighters were also called to west 115th Street & Foster Street.
In that fire, investigators believe lightning struck a roof vent and ignited insulation in the home's attic.
The damage was significant enough that the people who live there had to find another place to stay.
No injuries were reported.
