SWFL.io - Local NewsWINK Digital Team
•9/1/2026
FORT MYERS, Florida - A lightning strike started a fire at a local church, and it burned for hours before anyone noticed.
The Tice Fire Protection and Rescue Service District determined that a direct lightning strike during a severe storm caused the fire at Buckingham Presbyterian Church, located at 4241 Buckingham Rd., Fort Myers.
Investigators say the church was struck by lightning at around 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 1. Two lightning strikes hit the church property during the storm and 15 total strikes were recorded within a two-mile radius.
The fire wasn't spotted until nearly four hours later, when someone driving by noticed it and called emergency communications at around 10:25 p.m.
That gap meant the fire burned unchecked for a significant period before crews could respond.
"This incident is a reminder of how quickly severe weather can create dangerous conditions, particularly when lightning strikes occur after dark or during storms that limit visibility," said Fire Chief Michael Runk.
Runk encouraged residents to stay weather-aware. "We encourage residents to remain weather-aware and to report any signs of smoke, fire, or damage as soon as it is safe to do so," he said.
No details on injuries or damage estimates have been released.
Officials say lightning can travel through electrical, plumbing, communication and structural systems, so after any severe storm, property owners should check for smoke, unusual odors, tripped breakers or damaged electrical equipment and call 911 if anything seems off.