Lightning Strike Sparks Fire at Foam Box Factory in Si Racha

Pictures courtesy of Naewna

A lightning strike set off a massive blaze at a foam box factory in Si Racha, Chonburi, on the afternoon of October 13, causing widespread damage and the collapse of parts of the building. The incident occurred around 13:30 at the Pro-Care Packaging Company, located at 427/6 Moo 8, Bang Phra Subdistrict, Si Racha District. Firefighters from more than ten municipal and local fire departments responded to the emergency as flames spread rapidly through the facility.

Despite efforts to contain the blaze with high-pressure water jets, the fire quickly engulfed the factory due to the large quantities of flammable plastic packaging materials stored inside. Authorities deployed over 15 firefighting units, including crews from Bang Phra Subdistrict Administrative Organisation, Chao Phraya Surasak Municipality, Ban Suan Municipality, Nong Khom Subdistrict Administrative Organisation and Laem Chabang Municipality. Their combined efforts succeeded in limiting the fire’s spread to nearby structures, although the main building was largely destroyed.

According to initial reports from Si Racha District Chief Wekit Manarotkit, who personally oversaw firefighting operations at the scene, no injuries were reported as the fire broke out on a public holiday when most workers were absent. The district chief confirmed that the flames were brought under partial control by late afternoon but remained active within confined areas of the factory.

Officials said the likely cause of the fire was a lightning strike during a rainstorm, which caused an electrical short circuit in the building’s system. The intense heat and combustible materials inside the factory contributed to the rapid escalation of the blaze. Fire crews continued to monitor the site over night, for potential reignition while assessing structural damage to ensure safety before a full investigation begins.

Authorities are now working to determine the full extent of the damage, estimated to be in the tens of millions of baht and to assess potential safety improvements for industrial sites in the area. The Si Racha district office has urged factories to review lightning protection and electrical safety systems to prevent similar incidents, especially during the ongoing rainy season.

Key Takeaways

• A lightning strike ignited a fire at Pro-Care Packaging in Si Racha on October 13.

• Over 15 firefighting units contained the blaze, preventing wider spread.

• No injuries were reported as the incident occurred on a public holiday.

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  Adapted by Asean Now From Naewna 2025-10-14