Two local residential fires today are believed to have been caused by this morning’s thunderstorm that brought high winds, rain and lightning to the region.

No injuries were reported from a house fire today north of Freeborn.

The attic fire reported at 28993 655th Ave., about three quarters of a mile north of Freeborn, was caused by a lightning strike at about 3:30 a.m., according to Freeborn Fire Department Chief Steve Seipp.

Seipp said the homeowners — a husband and wife — were home at the time of the fire, but were able to leave the house safely.

He said the Fire Department was dispatched at 7:19 a.m., noting upon arriving small flames were seen that were knocked down within a minute.

He described the fire as fairly small.

Seipp estimated damage at $2,500 to $3,000, noting damage to the house’s siding and from first responders cutting a hole in the attic to get to the fire.

First responders were reportedly on scene for a little less than two hours.

Alden, Manchester and Hartland fire departments assisted on scene.

No injuries reported in shed fire

 No injuries were reported in a shed fire  this morning north of Albert Lea.

Freeborn County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Todd Earl said the shed at the address of 72876 225th St., close to city limits, is a complete loss, noting the cause of the fire is believed to have been caused by lightning.

Damage was limited to the shed.

The Sheriff’s Office was dispatched to the residence at 4:35 a.m.

A passerby reportedly noticed the fire and alerted the owner of the property.

Earl said that when law enforcement arrived, fire crews were already on scene and the shed was fully engulfed in flames and collapsing.

A damage estimate has not been established.

Earl said Albert Lea Township Fire Department, Albert Lea Fire Department and Manchester and Clarks Grove fire departments assisted on scene.