More than 100,000 thunderstorms occur in the U.S. each year; lightning strikes more than 30 million points on the ground during these storms. Lightning damage goes largely unreported, so statistics vary considerably.

The insurance industry estimates that 6.5% of all property/casualty claims are related to lightning strikes, amounting to hundreds of millions of dollars in damages each year. Some modern homes are equipped to withstand or absorb a lightning strike, but here are some typical effects from a strike:

• Fire: A bolt of lightning can result in heat of up to 50,000 degrees fahrenheit. The likelihood of fire is great. The fire may not be immediately noticeable; it may start in attic space or inside walls.
• Power surge: Electrical chaos and electrical damage can result from severe power surges after a lightning strike. A typical household electrical current is up to 220 volts; lightning voltage measures in the tens of millions.
• Lost appliances: A lightning-induced surge can randomly fry appliances in your home. Telephones and personal computers are commonly affected.
• Injuries: Occupants of a home can be injured depending on proximity or contact with electrical appliances, phones, or water when a strike occurs.

Fortunately, understanding lightning can help further protect your home.

Surge arresters, suppressors, and whole-house protectors don’t deter lightning. These devices are designed to protect incoming utility lines. Comprehensive surge protection should be combined with a structural lightning rod system for overall home protection.

Technology attracts lightning. Homes and businesses contain more electronic equipment than ever before. Internal wiring and piping can lead lightning right to this equipment.

Trees don’t protect a home from a lightning strike. Lightning seeks the most conductive path to ground. Although a tall tree in your yard may be struck, the lightning can “side-flash” from the tree to your home because metallic grounded systems within the home (electric, phone, gas, water) may provide a better grounding medium.

If you’re considering a lightning protection system, the Lightning Protection Institute (LPI) recommends hiring a licensed professional who will comply with the safety standards established by Underwriters Laboratories and the National Fire Protection Association. For more information, visit the LPI Web site at www.lightning.org.