Two local residential fires on Thursday are believed to have been caused by thunderstorms that brought high winds, rain and lightning to the region.

The attic fire reported at 28993 655th Ave., about three quarters of a mile north of Freeborn, was caused by a lightning strike at about 3:30 a.m., according to Freeborn Fire Department Chief Steve Seipp.

Seipp said the homeowners — a husband and wife — were home at the time of the fire, but were able to leave the house safely.

He said the Fire Department was dispatched at 7:19 a.m., noting upon arriving small flames were seen that were knocked down within a minute. Seipp described the fire as fairly small.

He estimated the damage to be at $2,500 to $3,000, noting there was damage to the house’s siding and from first responders cutting a hole in the attic to get to the fire.

First responders were reportedly on scene for a little less than two hours. Alden, Manchester and Hartland fire departments assisted on scene.

 

Shed fire reported

No injuries were reported in a shed fire Thursday morning north of Albert Lea.

Freeborn County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Todd Earl said the shed at the address of 72876 225th St., close to city limits, is a complete loss, noting the cause of the fire is believed to have been caused by lightning. Damage was limited to the shed, and a damage estimate has not been established.

The Sheriff’s Office was dispatched to the residence at 4:35 a.m.

Earl said a passerby alerted the homeowner to the fire, noting that when he arrived, fire crews were already on scene and the shed was fully engulfed in flames and collapsing.

Albert Lea Township, Albert Lea, Manchester and Clarks Grove fire departments assisted on scene.