Thunderstorm Sparks Electrical Fires, Damages Car in Plainfield

A strong thunderstorm moved through Plainfield on Monday, July 28, shortly after 5 p.m., triggering a series of electrical fires that forced a temporary street closure. Union County Life reported on the incident.

A downed utility wire caused multiple electrical fires along West Seventh Street between Monroe Avenue and Elaine Court. Police shut down the block while firefighters responded. Video posted to social media showed two fires igniting along the roadside. In one location, flames spread to a fence, and firefighters from Plainfield continued dousing the site after 7 p.m. to clear burning embers.

A separate incident occurred less than half a mile away, where a large sycamore tree branch fell and damaged a parked car on Lewis Avenue near Martby Avenue. That street was roped off to traffic.

No injuries were reported in either incident. Some residents in the affected areas lost power temporarily. Cedar Brook Park experienced flooding from the storm. As of midnight on July 28, fewer than five customers in Plainfield remained without power.

The Plainfield Police Department managed traffic during the response. Residents with downed branches or damage from the storm can contact the city's Public Works Department for debris removal or file reports with their insurance carriers.

Stay informed about Plainfield news and announcements on Union County Life.

FAQ

Q: When did the thunderstorm hit Plainfield?
A: The thunderstorm passed through Plainfield on Monday, July 28, 2026, shortly after 5 p.m. The electrical fires were reported shortly afterward, with firefighting efforts continuing past 7 p.m.

Q: What streets were closed due to the storm?
A: West Seventh Street between Monroe Avenue and Elaine Court was shut down by police due to electrical fires from a downed utility wire. Lewis Avenue near Martby Avenue was also roped off after a tree branch damaged a parked car.

Q: What caused the electrical fires?
A: A downed utility wire sparked a series of electrical fires along West Seventh Street. Flames spread to a fence in one location. Plainfield firefighters responded and extinguished the fires.

Q: Were there any injuries?
A: No injuries were reported from either the electrical fires or the fallen tree branch incident.

Q: Did people lose power?
A: Some residents in the affected areas lost power temporarily. As of midnight on July 28, fewer than five customers remained without power in Plainfield.

Q: Where can I report storm damage in Plainfield?
A: Contact the Plainfield Public Works Department at (908) 753-3618 for downed branches and debris removal. For property damage, file a report with your insurance carrier and contact your local police precinct if needed.