Lightning may have sparked fire destroying top US marine science lab, officials say | Florida

Authorities are investigating whether a massive fire that destroyed the top marine sciences laboratory at the University of South Florida was caused by a lightning strike.

Despite the great intervention of local fire brigades, the Marine Sciences Laboratory building was completely destroyed after the fire started on Saturday.

USF president Moez Limayem said lightning storms in the region were being looked at as the possible cause of the massive and devastating fire at the advanced science institute.

“St Pete Fire and Rescue said lightning was reported in the area when the fire started, but the cause is under investigation,” Limayem said in a statement. he said.

St. Petersburg Fire Chief Michael Lewis said more than 60 units and about 200 firefighters responded to the scene.

“We will rebuild stronger than ever, and my commitment is to do everything we can to move quickly to ensure we have the best possible facilities to support our first-year students, faculty and staff,” Limayem added.