The sudden storm that started shortly after noon today in southern Ocean County has cut power in parts of Barnegat and Manahawkin, officials say.

Trees are down, homes have been struck by lightning and some flooding has been reported as emergency crews are scrambling to the storm-affected scenes.

Lightning hit a home on Freedom Hills Drive, but did not cause significant damage, according to a fire official.

The other lighting strike hit a fence at a Hopper Avenue property. Fire officials are on their way now to investigate.

Gary Brown, president of the fire company, said the fire department received calls for assistance.

There are reports that a water pipe may have burst in Manahawkin and a tree branch fell on a car.

Stay in touch with Patch for updates.