SOLOMONS, Md. -- Authorities believe a discarded cigarette butt ignited a multi-alarm blaze Wednesday afternoon on Solomons Island in Calvert County.

Two restaurants caught fire at about 12:30 p.m., News4 reported, including the Lighthouse Inn.

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"I'm worried about my employees more than anything," said Richard Fisher, the owner of the Lighthouse Inn, a day after the fire.

Strong winds blew embers from the fire to adjoining buildings and at least two boats. Bowen's Inn sustained extensive damage, as did several condominiums that were nearby.

"I was in a meeting in my office, and it just went dark very quickly," witness Martin Caroll said. "I stepped outside, and there was smoke everywhere -- pitch-black smoke. There were embers flying, which was setting the grass alight. There were boats catching fire."

Several people ran around with fire extinguishers to try to save their property until firefighters could arrive.

"It was pure panic because of the satellite fires that were breaking out," Caroll said. "There were only a few fire trucks here at the time."

At least 68 firefighters from four counties battled the blaze. Tugboats also helped by using streaming cannons of water.

"It was a very windy day out," Calvert County Assistant Fire Chief Charles Nava said. "The fire spread pretty quickly. We were able to contain the fire to the buildings of origin with the use of heavy water streams."

Two of the buildings that were heavily damaged did not have fire sprinklers inside, News4's James Adams reported. Several buildings that did have sprinklers did not receive as much damage.

The damage was estimated at $5 million.

Police have not said if they've identified a person who discarded a cigarette that may have started the fire or if any charges would be filed.

If you have images or video of the fire, send them via e-mail to myvideo@nbc4.com.

Stay with News4 and nbc4.com for more information.