A Sonoma County family had a terrifying wake-up call Christmas morning when lightning struck a massive redwood tree just feet from their home.
According to the Press Democrat, Michael Valdovinos says the strike occurred just before 8:00 a.m. Thursday, creating an explosion that “felt like a bomb” and shook the entire house. The force literally shattered the tree, sending debris flying in all directions. One large piece of wood missed his daughter’s bedroom by only an inch.
The strike knocked out power and damaged the family’s well, but firefighters were able to clear the roof, and electricity was restored in time for the family to finish their holiday meal. Valdovinos says while they are still “shook,” they feel incredibly lucky to be safe after a Christmas they’ll never forget.