Lightning strike sparks house fire near Maidstone after night of thunderstorms

Firefighters were called to a house fire near Maidstone after lightning struck the roof during overnight thunderstorms.

Kent Fire and Rescue Service was called to Ulcombe Hill in Ulcombe at 1.35am on Saturday, 27 June 2026, following reports of a house fire.

Six fire engines attended the scene, along with a height vehicle and a bulk water carrier. Crews wearing breathing apparatus tackled the fire using main jets and checked the property for any remaining hotspots before leaving.

The KFRS Volunteer Response Team also attended to support the affected resident.

No injuries were reported.

The incident came after a period of extreme heat across Kent, followed by thunder and lightning overnight. Many residents in West Kent and nearby areas will have heard storms moving around during the night and into Saturday, after several days of hot and humid weather.

Kent Fire and Rescue Service said the fire started after lightning struck the roof of the property.

The incident is a reminder that thunderstorms can cause serious damage very quickly, especially when lightning hits roofs or loft spaces while people are asleep.

Residents are advised to make sure they have working smoke alarms on every floor of their home and to call 999 immediately if they smell smoke, see signs of fire or believe their home has been struck by lightning.