CENTRAL FLORIDA — A powerful storm system moved through Central Florida on Wednesday, leaving a trail of destruction from Brevard County to Seminole County. While the weather caused significant property damage, officials confirmed that no one was injured.
In Port St. John, residents on Aloha Avenue were shaken by a loud strike just after 8:30 p.m.
“It was like a big BOOM!!!” said neighbor John Semos, describing the moment lightning struck feet from his home. “My cat jumped and just about hit the ceiling.”
While the initial scare happened early in the evening, fire crews didn’t arrive until closer to 11 p.m. when flames became visible on a neighbor’s house.
“They just smoldered all that time I guess,” Semos said.
Firefighters arrived to find a carport burnt black, a motorcycle ruined, and damage to the homeowner’s new pickup truck. Crews worked quickly to extinguish the flames before they could spread further.
The severe weather wasn’t isolated to Port St. John. About 30 miles south in Palm Bay, first responders dealt with a massive crater caused by the storm. Aerial views showed a caved-in roof, while ground-level shots revealed crumbling columns and collapsed walls at the business complex.
Further north in Seminole County, the same storm front brought dark clouds and heavy hail, disrupting the evening commute for many drivers.
Despite the intense weather and the visual drama of a rainbow forming after the storm passed, the primary concern remained safety. In Port St. John, firefighters ensured the fire was completely out.
The good news is that despite the charred carport and damaged vehicles, the structure of the home remains sound and repairs can be made.
No injuries were reported in any of the incidents across the three counties.
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