Uk weather: Lightning storms leave hundreds of homes in Oxfordshire and Berkshire without power
Three buildings in Oxfordshire were set on fire after being hit by lightning
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Hundreds of homes have been left without power in Berkshire and Oxfordshire following a bout of torrential rain, thunder and lightning.
Transport was also disrupted for trains between Didcot Parkway and Reading when storms hit both counties in the early hours of Saturday morning.
Scottish and Southern Energy told the BBC lightning strikes to overhead cables had knocked out power supplies to 400 homes in Reading and 144 in Oxford.
Earlier today a lightning strike caused delays for hundreds of passengers at Gatwick Airport after causing electrical trips to the airport's systems.
Fire crews spent three hours extinguishing two roof fires caused by lightning strikes in Wokingham, while a property in Reading was also hit. A number of drivers had to be rescued after breaking down during floods.
Three buildings in Oxfordshire were set on fire after being hit by lightning strikes. There have been no reported injuries.
Engineers said they expected to restore power to all of the affected properties by the end of today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments