A lightning strike is being blamed for causing the fire at a house on Boulder Way early Wednesday morning, according to officials. The Ledyard Fire Company reported the incident occurred around 2:30 a.m., when emergency communications received a call from Eversource.
An electric lineman working in the area noticed smoke coming from the residence and immediately reported it, prompting the local fire department to respond. Fire crews, including those from neighboring Gales Ferry and Mashantucket, arrived on the scene shortly after the initial call.
Upon arrival, Ledyard's Fire Chief and his team found smoke conditions inside the home. They quickly located flames originating from the laundry and utility room, with some minor extension to the attic. “The fire was extinguished, and extensive overhaul was performed,” the fire officials noted, adding, “Crews remained on scene for approximately one hour.”
Fortunately, the homeowner was not present at the time of the fire, and there were no reported injuries as a result of the incident. Fire officials have indicated their belief about the fire's cause, stating, "The fire was believed to have been caused by a lightning strike from the line of thunderstorms." These thunderstorms had moved through the area shortly before the fire broke out.
The quick response from the Eversource lineman likely played a pivotal role in preventing the situation from worsening. Firefighters were able to arrive quickly, confirm the situation, and extinguish the blaze before it caused significant damage.
Currently, the fire is under investigation by the local fire marshal’s office to ascertain the full details surrounding the incident and to confirm the lightning strike as the definitive cause of the fire.
This event serves as a reminder of the power of nature and the importance of vigilance during thunderstorms. Homeowners are urged to take precautions to protect their properties during severe weather conditions.
The Ledyard community can breathe easy knowing their local fire company responded effectively to this unexpected natural disaster, securing the safety of the neighborhood and preventing the flames from spreading.