Lightning Strike Hits Pittsburgh-Area Catholic School

The heat is on to get things cleaned up in time for the start of school in a little more than three weeks for a facility that was struck by lightning Friday night.

A confirmed lightning strike seriously damaged the St. Sebastian in North Belle Vernon, and as a result, school officials are now scrambling to get repairs done in time to open the school for fall classes.

The lightning struck the roof, causing a fire that was put out by crews who were at the scene within minutes.

Heavy smoke poured through both floors of the school, almost setting the St. Sebastian Roman Catholic Church ablaze. The church, which sits next door to the school, was not damaged.

Tom Rodriguez, business manager for the church and school, said the first floor, which serves as a cafeteria and social hall, was seriously damaged by smoke after the fire spread from the roof down an electrical line.

On the second floor, where classes are held, there appeared to be less damage, Rodriguez said.

Cleanup and repairs began Monday. The work to be complete for the start of classes on Aug. 25.