NewsFox 13 News (WTVT) — All NewsAugust 31, 2026Hillsborough
Cobalt Apartments confirms 167 residents displaced and building demolition following lightning strike
Cobalt Apartments in Wesley Chapel announced that 167 residents were displaced and personal belongings are unlikely to be recovered after a lightning strike caused a fire in Building 2. The building has been condemned and is scheduled for demolition, while repairs continue on fire alarm systems in adjacent buildings.
Read the full story at Fox 13 News (WTVT) — All NewsWhy It Matters
The fire resulted in the total loss of 83 occupied apartment units and the condemnation of a 104-unit building, impacting the housing status and personal property of 167 residents.
Key Facts
- A lightning strike on August 20 caused a fire in Building 2 of the Cobalt Apartments.
- 167 residents were displaced by the fire.
- 83 occupied apartments were impacted by the blaze.
- Building 2 has been condemned by the Pasco County Building Department and is deemed structurally unsafe.
- Residents are prohibited from entering Building 2 to retrieve belongings due to collapse risks.
- The fire alarm systems in Building 3 are currently under repair and subject to a continuous visual fire watch.
- Building 1's fire alarm system has been repaired and approved by the Fire Marshal.
- The apartment complex states all fire systems were operational prior to the lightning strike.
- The remainder of the 401-unit complex remains operational.
- No injuries were reported during the incident.
Who's Mentioned
organizationAmerican Red Cross“Provided emergency shelter and assistance to displaced residents.”other401“Total units in the apartment community.”other600,000“Social media reach regarding the incident.”other83“Number of occupied apartments impacted.”other167“Number of displaced residents.”organizationCobalt Apartments“The apartment complex where the fire occurred.”other104“Total apartment homes in Building 2.”organizationPasco County Building Department“Condemned the affected building.”organizationPasco County Fire Rescue“The agency that responded to the fire and confirmed the cause.”