Tom and Linda Murphy were displaced from their Plano residence after a lightning strike caused significant damage and a fire early Friday morning. The couple, who have lived in the home off and on for nearly three decades, were awakened around 7 a.m. by the event, which was part of a period with more than 900 strikes in the area. Tom Murphy described the sound as uniquely loud and destructive, noting that the roof damage was so severe he could see the sky and rain from the attic.
The Plano Fire Department responded to the blaze, and the couple sustained no injuries. However, insurance agent Mark Villasana of Northwest Insurance Agency noted that while lightning is typically a covered peril, the extent of recovery depends on specific policy details. He advised homeowners to verify their coverage, as some properties, particularly vacant ones or those under construction, may have limited protection.
The Murphys possess full coverage, but repairs are expected to take between six and nine months. Villasana explained that fire damage directly linked to lightning is generally covered, but homeowners should review their policies carefully. The family expressed gratitude for the emergency response and joked about the rarity of the event given their long tenure in the house.
