This is the shocking moment lightning strikes the roof of a pensioners house - causing a massive explosion.

The roaring bolt of lightning hit the semi-detached house on Bambury Street in Stoke-on-Trent shortly before 5.25pm on Saturday. 

Firefighters and police were called to the property before evacuating neighbours and setting up a cordon. 

A security camera from a nearby home captured the harrowing moment the bolt hits the roof, causing a massive explosion. 

In the 10-second clip the sky can be seen lighting up before an almost instantaneous flash and explosion happen.

A 79-year-old woman has been left homeless following the explosion (Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service).

Orange smoke, thought to be flames, can be seen rising from the roof before the sound of the strike echoes throughout the neighbourhood. 

It's believed the property is owned by a 79-year-old woman who has since been made homeless due to the seriousness of the damage. 

A GoFundMe set up by Hayley Johnson says the elderly woman's home was now flooded and the roof was in need of urgent repair - but her insurance won't cover it.

In the post, Hayley wrote: "With permission from our neighbor am asking for help. On 21st September lightning struck the roof of the house where the 79 year old lives and set it alight. 

"The insurance company won't cover lightning strikes so they are now homeless. The house is flooded due to the rain and the roof needs completely replacing. 

"Any help to get this lady her home liveable again would be appreciated. Alternatively if anyone trades people could help please get in touch with me so I can direct you to her son."

The GoFundMe has already raised over £4,000 out of it's £10,000 target. 

The link can be found here.

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READ MORE: Plans submitted for new residential development on former pub site in Stoke-on-Trent

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