Chelmsford House Hit By Lightning

19 July 2014, 06:53 | Updated: 19 July 2014, 07:41

The roof of a house in Chelmsford has collapsed, after it was hit by lightning during overnight thunderstorms.

Around 15 firefighters were sent to the detached property in Barlows Reach at about 10:45pm last night.

Several calls were made to Essex Fire Service after smoke was seen pouring from the property's roof following a lightning strike.

When crews arrived on the scene, the discovered that the roof of the house was completely alight.

A spokesperson for Essex Fire and Rescue said: "Firefighters in breathing apparatus used two hose reels to tackle flames. 

Everyone was accounted for and there were no reported casualties. 

At 23:32 hrs, the incident commander reported that the roof had collapsed. 

Firefighting operations were continuing with one hose reel and two main jets in use. 

The fire was surrounded by 23:54 hrs. 

Crews were attempting to gain access to fire which had spread to the first floor through cavity walls. 

Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus were using two hose reels and two main jets as firefighting operations continue."

Essex Fire Service says buildings have also been damaged in Holland-on-Sea and Elmstead.