Hay Barn Fire Destroys Over 2,000 Bales, Losses Exceed Half a Million Baht; Owner Suspects Lightning Strike
A hay barn fire destroyed over 2,000 bales of feed in Phatthalung Province on May 6, causing losses exceeding 500,000 baht; the owner suspects a lightning strike during a thunderstorm ignited the blaze.
At 6:09 AM on May 6, 2025, officials received reports of a large hay barn fire in Tambon Lampam, Baan Khoklungmuang District, Phatthalung Province. Three fire trucks from Phatthalung Municipality and the Phatthalung Provincial Administration Organization responded to the scene. The burning structure belonged to 54-year-old Pra-karn (surname withheld), and firefighters found intense, rapidly spreading flames. The barn contained over 2,000 bales of hay and stored cattle feed, which fueled the intense blaze.
According to initial questioning, the barn owner reported that heavy rain preceded the fire, accompanied by multiple thunder claps. He suspects either an electrical short circuit or a lightning strike sparked the flames. Upon discovering the fire, he immediately notified authorities for assistance.
Firefighters coordinated water spraying to prevent the fire from spreading to neighboring areas, while rescue personnel dispersed hay piles away from the ignition point to improve fire control access. Backhoes were deployed to dig and separate hay piles, reducing heat accumulation and extinguishing smoldering fires within.
The surrounding area became filled with heavy smoke, affecting nearby residences. However, there were no reported injuries or deaths. Preliminary damage assessment exceeds 500,000 baht, with the official cause still under investigation by authorities.
