Lightning strike sparks fire at Southern Hill Farms, destroys critical equipment

CLERMONT, Fla. – According to a post on the farm's Facebook page, lightning struck the barn at Southern Hill Farms in Clermont overnight, sparking a large fire.

According to officials, the fire broke out shortly after 3 a.m. Monday. Firefighters from Clermont and Lake County arrived on scene and extinguished the fire. There were no injuries.

The farm said the barn contained most of its equipment, including several tractors, farm vehicles and other important machinery, all of which were destroyed in the fire and are considered a “total loss.”

Southern Hill Farms is hosting its annual Fall Festival, which was scheduled to begin on September 28th.

“While the gates will still open on September 28, 2024 for the 9th Annual Southern Hill Farms Fall Festival, there will be a lot of work going on behind the scenes to ensure equipment and infrastructure are restored so we can get back to doing what we love: farming,” the farm shared on social media. “We know our annual Fall Festival is a beloved part of your fall traditions, and we are committed to moving forward. We appreciate your continued support during this difficult time.”