Lightning Strike Damages Bell Towers of Ruan Church
Clare: The bell towers of St. Mary’s Church in Ruan, Clare, were severely damaged following a lightning strike in the early hours of the morning. The timber bell tower collapsed to the ground during the incident, which occurred around 3:45 a.m. yesterday.
Clare County Fire and Rescue Services arrived promptly to extinguish the fire that broke out in the upper section of the church. Despite their efforts, the bell tower collapsed while firefighters were preparing to combat the flames. A nearby house also sustained significant damage, though no casualties were reported as the property was unoccupied at the time.
Bystanders described hearing loud noises and witnessing flames engulf the upper part of the church. Although the main building was spared from major damage, the church’s electrical system was completely destroyed, with power sockets and switches reportedly exploding due to the strike.
Parishioners expressed relief that the church’s main structure remained intact. Parish priest Fr. Pat O’Neill described the event as a frightening experience, while local resident Donald O’Hanifain recounted witnessing the lightning strike firsthand.
In the aftermath, the church and its surroundings were cleaned and restored under the leadership of local residents. Their efforts have been praised for preventing further damage and preserving the historic structure.
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