PALM COAST, FL– In an unusual and alarming incident, a large chunk of ice plummeted from the sky and crashed through the roof of a Palm Coast, Florida home on Monday afternoon, sparking an investigation by federal aviation officials.
Ice Falls from the Sky in Palm Coast
The incident occurred around 3:30 p.m. with temperatures hovering around 75 degrees. The Palm Coast Fire Department swiftly responded to the scene after receiving reports of ice falling from the sky. Upon arrival, firefighters discovered a hole in the home’s metal roof with scattered remnants of ice inside the living space.
Authorities from the Palm Coast Building Department inspected the damage and deemed the home safe for occupancy. Firefighters also placed a tarp over the affected section of the roof to prevent further exposure to the elements. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
FAA and Authorities Investigate the Source
The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office is actively investigating the origin of the ice and has contacted the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for assistance. One theory being explored is whether the ice may have fallen from an aircraft flying overhead.
While rare, such incidents do occur. Aviation expert Shem Malmquist explained that ice accumulation on certain parts of an aircraft, such as around the mast, can break loose and fall unexpectedly.
“The area under the mast can develop a ball of ice, and at certain points – that can just dislodge and fall,” Malmquist told FOX 35. “It happens a few times a year.”
FAA officials added that water leaks on aircraft can sometimes lead to ice forming on the exterior. As the plane descends and temperatures rise, this ice can break off and fall to the ground.
“When the FAA gets reports about such incidents, the agency tries to determine whether the ice could have come from an aircraft and then identify aircraft potentially involved,” an FAA spokesperson said.
