Lightning Strike Travels Underground, Sparks Three-Alarm House Fire in Abington

ABINGTON, MA — A lightning strike that reportedly traveled underground sparked a three-alarm fire at a home in Abington, Massachusetts, prompting a significant response from local firefighters.

According to Boston 25 News WFXT, the unusual incident began when lightning traveled underground before reaching the residential property and igniting a fire.

Lightning-related fires can be particularly dangerous because the electrical current does not always enter a building through a direct strike to the roof or exterior. In some cases, electricity can travel through the ground, underground utility connections, wiring and other conductive materials before reaching a structure.

The reported incident serves as a reminder that lightning can pose a serious threat to homes and buildings even when a property does not appear to have been struck directly.

### Three-Alarm Response

A three-alarm fire designation indicates that additional firefighting resources were requested to help respond to the emergency.

Firefighters responding to incidents involving possible electrical damage must also consider hazards that may not be immediately visible, including damaged wiring, electrical equipment and potential fire inside walls or other concealed areas.

The circumstances surrounding the underground lightning strike make this incident an unusual example of how severe weather can cause unexpected property damage.

### Lightning Safety Reminder

Residents across Abington and the South Shore are reminded to take thunderstorms seriously. Lightning can strike miles away from the area where rain is falling, and homes can experience electrical damage even without a direct strike.

The National Weather Service recommends seeking shelter inside a substantial enclosed building or hard-topped vehicle when thunderstorms approach.

Residents should also avoid using electrical appliances connected to outlets and stay away from plumbing during active thunderstorms.

Anyone who notices smoke, flames, burning odors or signs of electrical damage should leave the building and contact 911.

Additional information about the extent of the damage, possible injuries and the circumstances surrounding the fire should be confirmed through local fire officials.

Plimoth Today will continue to follow significant public safety incidents across Plymouth County and the South Shore.