A Falkirk family had to flee their home overnight after lightning struck their property and caused it to burst into flames.
Terrifying pictures show fire and smoke billowing from the roof early this morning as severe storms battered the area.
Residents on Reddingrigg Road say they were left looking on in horror.
Bill Reid, who lives nearby, said: “I’ve never seen anything like it, the noise was also incredible.”
“Me and the wife were in bed and obviously aware it was stormy outside, but I did not expect to look out and see what I did.”
“I can only describe the noise as like an explosion, a bomb going off.”
“That’s been when the bolt hit the house.”
“I’ve heard lightning hitting things before, but the chances are very slim I suppose.”
No-one was injured in the fire.
Images on social media also show cars submerged in water after a burn burst it banks in Polmont, causing a hotel to flood.
People staying at the Travelodge there had to jump out of windows to safety.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service received more than 500 calls overnight.
