CRANBERRY TWP — A township family was expected to get its house repaired today after it was hit by lightning.

The strong band of storms that passed through Butler County on Thursday night scared the family out of their home.

Brian Kovac, Cranberry Township Volunteer Fire Company chief, said this morning that lightning struck a townhome on Sunset Circle about 10:30 p.m.

He said the lightning traveled into the townhome and along the wiring, causing a small fire in the attic insulation. It also melted some wiring.

Kovac said the family, which includes young children, elected to stay elsewhere Thursday night as a precaution.

He said an electrician from the family’s insurance company was slated to visit the home today to repair the wiring and electrical box, where several breakers were tripped.

He said the family could return to the home immediately.

Damage to the wiring and insulation was estimated at about $2,000, Kovac said.

He said firefighters remained on the scene for some time to ensure the entire building, which has two townhomes, was safe.