Several flights delayed after lightning strikes runway at Sanford airport

SANFORD, Fla. — Several flights were delayed Tuesday evening after lightning struck a runaway at Orlando Sanford International Airport, officials said.

The main runway, which was struck between 6:30 p.m. and 7 p.m., was closed until crews could repair a hole caused by the lightning strike, airport spokeswoman Lauren Rowe said.

The runway was reopened at 9 p.m., Rowe said.

Several flights were delayed and at least two flights were diverted to St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport, she said.

Several flights are expected to arrive Tuesday evening. It's unknown how many of them are affected, Rowe said.

Check back and watch Channel 9 Eyewitness News for updates to this developing story.

Cox Media Group