A private residential house in Kokshetau caught fire after being struck by lightning on June 13, according to Kazakhstan's Emergency Ministry. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Kursiv Media.
Preliminary information indicates that a lightning bolt hit the roof of the house, causing it to ignite instantly. There was a threat of the fire spreading to neighboring structures.
Fire crews promptly arrived at the scene. Thanks to the coordinated efforts of rescuers, the fire was quickly contained, preventing the flames from spreading to nearby buildings.
According to the Emergency Ministry, the fire was fully extinguished over an area of 120 square meters.
"The fire was completely extinguished over an area of 120 square meters. Despite the serious threat, there were no casualties," the ministry reported.
No one was injured as a result of the incident. The Emergency Ministry noted that the professional actions of firefighters helped avoid more severe consequences and protected neighboring properties from the fire.
Amid unstable weather conditions, rescuers urged Kazakh citizens to follow fire safety rules and be especially cautious during thunderstorms.
To prevent fires, experts recommend equipping homes with lightning protection systems, turning off electrical appliances during thunderstorms, and avoiding open areas. The Emergency Ministry advises staying indoors during thunderstorms, closing windows and doors, and refraining from touching water pipes and electrical wiring.
This incident once again highlights the importance of preventive measures against natural disasters. Lightning-induced fires are not uncommon in various regions of Kazakhstan, so adhering to safety rules can save lives and property.