The Effects of Lightning Strikes on Homes

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

Lightning strike in Doral, FL area

There are many causes of home fires, both natural and man-made. A lightning fire is one of the most destructive and deadly you could encounter in Doral, FL. As a homeowner, it’s helpful to be aware of how these occur, what you can do to prevent them and what the effects can be on the structure and your own safety.

How and When They Occur

Unlike other types of fires that could start in your home, it is difficult, if not impossible, to predict when a lightning strike will hit a structure. However, there are certain conditions and situations where there is a greater likelihood for a house fire due to this weather phenomenon:

• Strikes occur frequently during the summer months
• Strikes occur mostly in the late afternoon or evening
• Strikes vary depending on regions
• Weather patterns affect where and when strikes occur
  
  

Damage

A lightning fire can often be more devastating than other types of fires. In many cases, these blazes result in fatalities and widespread damage. Fires from strikes can result in structural losses, electrical failure and loss of other property and belongings. The results can be sudden although some of these fires may start small and gradually increase in strength.

Safety Measures

During an electrical storm, you should turn off all electronics, including televisions, stereos and phones. Do not bathe or do dishes when there is lightning nearby. You should stay away from windows but remain inside during these situations. The only time you should leave your home during such a storm would be if your house caught on fire. Otherwise, remain indoors until 30 minutes have passed since the last flash.
If lightning does hit your dwelling and cause a fire, evacuate and get to a low place outside. Call 911 and do not try to reenter the house. After crews extinguish the lightning fire, get in touch with a professional fire restoration team to clean up and rebuild your home.