2 freed from fallen house, 3rd collapse of week

The incident came three days after two other buildings crumbled in other parts of the city.

On Tuesday, a wall in a Frankford church at Griscom and Orthodox streets collapsed; the church, which no longer hosted religious services, was used as a gathering place for community groups. That night, part of a three-story apartment building collapsed on 15th Street near Clymer in South Philadelphia, smashing a car parked curbside.

No injuries were reported in either incident.

Authorities suspect the recent heavy rains, coupled with the advanced age of the buildings, produced perfect conditions for collapse.

This month is the rainiest August on record in Philadelphia, according to Fox 29 weather producer Harry Holmes. The record was broken Thursday. More than a foot of rain has fallen so far, the National Weather Service reported.

"Rain, severe weather, all of that, can put distressed buildings under further stress," Kennedy said. "If you're a homeowner, make sure your facade is intact, that no walls are bowed or cracked, and that it's structurally sound."

She urged residents who see "potentially dangerous" structures to call 3-1-1 "and we will go out and inspect."