Witness describes hearing a 'sonic boom' as lightning strikes tree in Tokoroa, sparking a fire

August 17, 2018

A witness has described the moment she heard a "sonic boom" as a lightning strike sparked a fire in the Waikato town of Tokoroa this morning.

Sharyn Newman told Stuff she "heard the shatter of glass and just got a massive fright" after lightning struck the tree and caused a gas leak just before 7am.

Ms Newman said a friend, who lives up the road, was left with "no power, no electrical equipment, no computer, no television - it's all gone and a few windows shattered". 

Kauri Street and West Parkdale Street are closed following the incident.

Emergency services are at the scene and members of the public have been advised to avoid the area.


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