A grain elevator fire believed to have been caused by a lightning strike prompted an evacuation order in northwestern Minnesota Friday. According to the Norman County Sheriffโs Office, the fire was reported at a privately owned grain elevator at around 5 a.m. The investigation determined that the fire may have been started by a lightning strike.
A nearby building containing hazardous materials also caught fire. The fire resulted in an evacuation order in the area, though the order was lifted later that day at around 1 p.m. when air quality was found to be safe. Still, residents were encouraged to stay indoors for the rest of the day. The fire also caused a power outage that resulted in the cityโs water supply losing pressure. A boil water advisory was issued until further notice, meaning residents are encouraged to boil water before using water to drink, prepare food or brush teeth. County roads 3 and 18 were also closed following the fire but have since reopened.
