Central Maine House Fire Likely Caused by Lightning Strike

According to a press release from the Maine Department of Public Safety, a severe thunderstorm may have been responsible for two separate fires inside a Litchfield home Thursday night.

Firefighters were called to a home at 1859 Hallowell Road, where they discovered two fires burning inside the residence.  The family living there was able to escape safely and called 911. No injuries were reported.

Because there were two separate fires, investigators with the Office of State Fire Marshal were called in to help determine what happened.

After interviewing witnesses and examining the scene, investigators say the fires were most likely connected to the severe thunderstorm moving through the area at the time. A possible lightning strike may have energized the home and caused the fires.

Investigators are expected to analyze lightning strike data Friday to confirm whether lightning was responsible.

The State Fire Marshal's Office is also reminding Mainers that lightning can travel through a home's electrical wiring, plumbing and other conductive systems.

During severe thunderstorms, officials recommend staying indoors, avoiding contact with electrical equipment and plumbing, and waiting until the storm has safely passed before resuming normal activities.

So, if the thunder starts booming, maybe don't take that moment to test whether your toaster is still working.