A lightning strike caused a house fire in Monroe Wednesday night, authorities say.

Fire officials say they responded to a basement fire on Williamsburg Drive shortly before midnight.

Thirty-six firefighters responded and quickly contained the fire to the basement.

Investigators determined lightning struck a tree in the backyard and followed a path into the home, which sparked the fire.

A family, which included young children, evacuated prior to the arrival of first responders.

No one was injured.

Authorities say the family had to spend the night somewhere else due to smoke and fire damage.

Investigators say working smoke alarms, a quick evacuation and calling 911, along with closing the basement door, helped reduce damage.