Lightning strike explodes tree in Warsaw, Pete Thorn Building damaged

Part of the Pete Thorn building was closed Tuesday morning after a lightning strike hit and exploded a nearby tree Monday.

Numerous limbs from the tree damaged the building’s roof and caused some water damage inside, said Larry Plummer, superintendent of the city parks and recreation department.

The strike occurred at about 3 p.m.

The building never lost electrical service, but the gas was not available this morning, Plummer said.

Normal activities on the building’s north enter were canceled today. Mobile meals were being run out of the south end of the building, Plummer said.

Plummer said he believed normal activities in the building would resume Wednesday.

Plummer said they believes the roof will have to be replaced.

Debris from the tree could be found in all directions, but damage was limited to the park building in the 800 block of Park Avenue, he said.