Emergency services are currently on the scene of a fire in School Close, Fittleworth, where crews from West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service (WSFRS) have been working tirelessly to bring the situation under control.
It is believed that the fire was caused by a lightning strike during this afternoon’s stormy weather. The blaze affected a residential property, but thankfully, the occupant — a 94-year-old woman — is confirmed to be safe.
Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus have been using hose reels and jets to tackle the flames. While the incident has now been scaled back, crews are expected to remain at the scene for some time to ensure the area is fully safe and the fire completely extinguished.
Residents in the local area are being urged to keep windows and doors closed due to smoke, and the public is asked to avoid the area to allow emergency teams to work without obstruction.
A WSFRS spokesperson said: “We are currently attending a fire in School Close, Fittleworth. The incident has been scaled back, but our crews will remain on scene for the time being. Please continue to avoid the area and keep windows and doors closed if you live nearby.”
