Is it Safe to Use Electronics During Lightning Storms?

Lightning storms can pose significant risks to electronic devices, primarily due to the potential for power surges and lightning strikes. Here are key points to consider for ensuring the safety of your electronic devices during such weather.

Understanding Lightning Risks

Lightning is a highly dangerous natural phenomenon capable of causing widespread damage. The experiences shared here highlight the severity of these risks.

First Experience

During my previous experience, a lightning strike hit a hill near my home. The impact was forceful, shaking the entire house. What followed was a strong surge that traveled through the water line, ultimately frying my well water pump. Thankfully, a nearby breaker in the garage tripped, limiting the impact to just the pump's breaker box. Additionally, another breaker in the house did not trip, indicating the severity of the surge.

Second Experience

In another incident, a lightning strike hit a transformer on a pole about a mile up the road from my home. The resulting power surge caused extensive damage at other houses. My neighbor's meter exploded, damaging the side of his house. I, too, had two GFI outlets that blew—one in the garage and one in the main house. Similar to the first experience, neighbors experienced significant damage to their electronic systems, including furnaces, water softeners, and refrigerators.

Precautions for Safety

Given these experiences, it is crucial to take specific precautions to protect your electronics during a lightning storm.

Surge Protection

One of the most effective ways to mitigate potential damage is to ensure that your electronic devices are connected to surge protectors. These devices can help divert excess voltage, protecting your devices from power surges caused by lightning strikes. It is essential to use multi-outlet surge protectors to avoid the risk of grounding issues and to protect all electronic devices connected to the same circuit.

Avoid Corded Devices

It is advisable to avoid using corded devices like landline phones during a lightning storm. Lightning can travel through the wiring of these devices, posing a risk of electric shock. Wireline phones are particularly dangerous because the wires act as a direct path for lightning to enter your home. For safer communication, consider using wireless or cordless phones instead.

Wireless Devices Caution

Using wireless devices such as laptops and smartphones is generally considered safer during lightning storms. However, you should still exercise caution, especially if you are near windows or if the storm is particularly severe. Windows can conduct lightning, and being near them increases the risk of injury. If possible, move to a more central area of your home where you are less exposed.

Stay Indoors

The safest place during a lightning storm is indoors. Ensure you stay away from conductive materials such as plumbing fixtures and electrical appliances. These materials can conduct electricity and increase the risk of injury. It is also wise to avoid using any electronic devices until the storm has passed to minimize the risk of damage.

Conclusion

While it is not inherently dangerous to use electronics during a lightning storm, taking precautions is essential to ensure safety. By following these guidelines, you can protect your valuable electronic devices and minimize the risk of injury.