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NewsFOX 13 Tampa BayAugust 21, 2026Hillsborough County

Lightning strike destroys Wesley Chapel apartment building and displaces 200 residents

Photo: FOX 13 Tampa Bay

A lightning strike caused a three-alarm fire at the Cobalt Apartments in Wesley Chapel on Thursday afternoon, resulting in the destruction of an apartment building and the displacement of approximately 200 residents.

Public SafetyEmergency ServicesHousingWeather
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Why It Matters

The fire has resulted in the immediate loss of housing for 200 residents and the total destruction of an apartment building in the Wesley Chapel area.

Key Facts

  • A lightning strike was identified as the cause of the fire.
  • The incident was classified as a three-alarm fire.
  • The fire occurred at the Cobalt Apartments in Wesley Chapel.
  • Approximately 200 residents were displaced by the fire.
  • The fire resulted in the destruction of an apartment building.
  • The event took place on Thursday afternoon.

Who's Mentioned

OrganizationAmerican Red Cross“Providing resources to displaced residents.”locationCobalt Apartments“Site of the fire in Wesley Chapel.”locationWesley Chapel“The community where the fire occurred.”other3900“Block number of the fire location on Jermyn Loop.”other911“Emergency service call.”PersonRyan Guynn“Fire Rescue Chief who provided details on the fire's progression.”other4338“Street number for the donation drop-off location.”OrganizationPasco County Fire Rescue“Lead agency responding to the fire.”