Lightning was the cause of two structure fires reported in Lawrence County Tuesday evening, according to the Ohio Division of the State Fire Marshal.

Lightning strikes are the most probable source of ignition of a barn fire at 5435 State Route 775 in Windsor Township and a house fire at 3098 County Road 124 in Chesapeake.

The Windsor fire was reported at 6:35 p.m. and the Chesapeake fire was reported at 8:40 p.m.

Neighbors and witnesses in both locations told fire investigators that the fires were discovered and reported within minutes of hearing louder than usual thunder.

Both structures were located in cleared areas on top of hills and severe weather systems moved through the area at the times the fires were reported.

No one was injured in either fire. The homeowners in Chesapeake had left their home shortly before the incident occurred.

Investigators say the fire in the Chesapeake home originated in the attic. A point of origin in the barn fire was not determined.

Both structures were destroyed. Investigators say the 68 ft. by 48 ft. barn had more than 5,000 bales of hay, a vehicle and farm equipment stored inside.