Despite tornado warnings, storm damage across Butler County Wednesday night was minimal.

Steve Bicehouse, director of county emergency services, said there were fewer than 20 weather-related 911 calls.

“We’ve had worse storms that popped up out of nowhere,” he said.

A few downed trees and utility wires scattered across the county caused minor electrical outages.

Grace @ Calvary Lutheran Church on East Diamond Street in Butler was damaged by a lightning strike.

As a precaution, people attending the annual Saxonburg Fireman’s Carnival were herded into the fire hall off Pittsburgh Street.

Saxonburg council President Carol Neubert, who also is the carnival chair, said the event was shut down after the rain started.

“We had quite a storm,” Neubert said. “We scurried everybody off the grounds.”

She said some people left in their vehicles while others waited out the downpour and the accompanying lightning in the fire hall.

“It was quite a light show,” Neubert said. She said the carnival grounds were not damaged.

The carnival resumes tonight at 6 p.m., weather permitting.