The Storm Lake Fire Department responded Sunday afternoon to a barn fire south of town.
Crews were dispatched just before 1 p.m. to the 6400 block of 90th Ave. after a passerby reported heavy smoke coming from the structure.
On arrival, firefighters found a large barn filled with smoke and immediately called for backup.
Departments from Early, Schaller, and Alta joined the response, while MidAmerican Energy shut down power to the building. Recent snowfall made access difficult, prompting Buena Vista County road crews to bring in a grader. Storm Lake Towing also assisted after several vehicles became stuck at the property.
Firefighters were able to safely remove a goat and several cats from the barn. The blaze was eventually brought under control, and crews used thermal imaging cameras to check for hot spots.
Following a thorough investigation, the fire has been ruled accidental. Officials determined it was caused by a heating lamp used to provide warmth to a small flock of chickens roosting in the barn.
