Lightning Strike Causes Explosion in Stoke-on-Trent

A lightning strike caused a massive explosion at a pensioner's home on Bambury Street in Stoke-on-Trent shortly before 5:25 PM on September 21. The incident, captured on a nearby security camera, resulted in the evacuation of neighbors and the establishment of a cordon by emergency services. The home's 79-year-old owner has been rendered homeless due to extensive damage, with her insurance not covering lightning strikes. A GoFundMe campaign has been initiated to help her raise funds for urgent repairs, which has so far raised nearly £2,000 out of a £10,000 target. This event occurred amid severe weather conditions, with thunderstorms resulting in widespread power outages and flooding across North Staffordshire. The region is currently under weather warnings for ongoing heavy rain and potential flooding.