Lightning Strikes Cause House Fires in Michiana

Experts share safety tips as more severe weather approaches the region

Apr. 1, 2026 at 10:04pm

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Two house fires in Michiana were caused by lightning strikes on Tuesday, according to local fire officials. The first fire occurred just south of the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, while the second took place in Granger, blowing holes in the driveway and damaging the electrical system in the garage. Authorities are urging residents to stay weather aware and take proper precautions during thunderstorms, including avoiding being the tallest object around, staying away from metal, and staying out of the water.

Why it matters

Lightning strikes are an unpredictable natural phenomenon that can pose a serious threat to homes and public safety. With more severe weather expected in the Michiana region this week, it's crucial for residents to be prepared and follow safety guidelines to prevent similar incidents.

The details

The South Bend Fire Department was able to quickly extinguish the first fire, which appeared to have started on the second level of the home. In the Granger incident, the lightning bolt blew two holes in the driveway and traveled through the garage, causing significant damage to the electrical system. Fire officials emphasize that in the worst-case scenario of a lightning strike, residents should immediately call 911, exit the home, and wait in a vehicle if possible.

  • The two house fires occurred on Tuesday, April 1, 2026.

The players

Derek Erquhart

The assistant chief of fire prevention for the South Bend Police Department.

Clay Fire Territory

The fire department that responded to the Granger house fire and shared images of the damage.

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What they’re saying

“A lot of it seemed to be second level and up. So, the firefighters did a really good job getting in there, trying to get the fire under control it was unique, they had to do some work on the roof to make sure the fire was fully extinguished.”

— Derek Erquhart, Assistant Chief of Fire Prevention, South Bend Police Department

“I think truly, it's just we don't know when and where lightning's going to strike. It's just being weather aware.”

— Derek Erquhart, Assistant Chief of Fire Prevention, South Bend Police Department

“Be careful, if you smell anything if you smell smoke, or it seems like something burning, call 911 and try to exit the home try to get outside. If you have a vehicle, you can always wait outside in the vehicle if it's raining out. but we always try to say exit the home, be safe.”

— Derek Erquhart, Assistant Chief of Fire Prevention, South Bend Police Department

What’s next

The First Alert Weather Team at WNDU has been reminding residents to stay indoors during thunderstorms, avoid being the tallest object around, stay away from metal, and stay out of the water to keep themselves as safe as possible. With more severe weather expected in the Michiana region this week, it's crucial for residents to heed these safety guidelines.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the unpredictable and potentially devastating nature of lightning strikes, which can cause significant damage to homes and put public safety at risk. It serves as a timely reminder for Michiana residents to stay vigilant, follow weather advisories, and take appropriate precautions during severe storms to protect themselves and their property.