It happens about 100 times each second.1 At this rate, lightning deserves our attention. A single lightning strike can have devastating consequences to a structure and the community. Over 22,000 times a year, fire departments respond to fires caused by lightning (Figure on the right, photo courtesy of Lightning Protection Institute).2 We see the immediate impact of a lightning strike by the raging fire and structural damage.
What’s not always talked about is the internal damage to computers, communication devices, security systems, and the entire electrical/electronic infrastructure. This damage results in loss of data, business downtime, and loss of personal and business productivity. When lightning strikes a critical building such as a fire station, police station, or hospital, an entire community can lose the emergency services needed. Whether one is a homeowner, a business owner, or part of the design/build community, understanding the impact of a lightning strike and how to be prepared is vital.