Lightning Strike Causes St. James House Fire

Lightning struck the roof of a St. James house on Friday causing a fire in the top floor of the house.

Bill Theobalt, chief of the St. James fire department, said a neighbor placed an emergency call after she heard a loud bang and saw smoke at the house next door.

Theobalt said the family was not home at the time. A pet sitter, two dogs and an iguana all exited the home safely.

Friday's blistering heat caused two firefighters to be examined by emergency medical workers after showing signs of heat exhaustion. Both were found to be in good condition.

Area fire crews were busy Friday after a lightning and rain storm swept through the area. Theobalt said there were several reports of lightning strikes, but said this was the only fire in the area. The department responded earlier to downed wires on North Country Road.

Nisseqogue and Nesconset fire departments aided in the Friday fire, which was contained to an upstairs bedroom and attic area.