If lightning strikes the house: So you’re ready

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Switzerland is experiencing another tropical night: The meteorological service Meteo News described the warm morning as the calm before the storm. According to the website of the Federal Office of Meteorology and Climatology, Meteoschweiz, the first heavy thunderstorms from the southwest will appear on the northern side of the Alps by noon. Thunderstorms and hail showers are expected in the evening.

This summer, Switzerland expects a severe thunderstorm phase. Heavy rain, storms and small hail are expected. This is typical summer weather.

How does a storm form?

Thunderstorms are not uncommon, especially in the summer. The sun shines longer, warming the air on the ground and evaporating the water in lakes. This hot air rises like in a boiling pot. The higher it climbs, the colder it gets. The moisture condenses and heat is released again.

Humid rising air cools more slowly than the surrounding air. This creates clouds. The more moist, warm air rises from below, the larger the cloud can then turn into a thundercloud. If the air in the cloud is very humid, it falls back to the earth as rain, which can cause heavy rain if the amount of moisture is high.

How do lightning and thunder occur?

A lightening It is a spark discharge in nature or a short electric arc between clouds or between clouds and earth. Lightning usually occurs as a result of electrostatic buildup during a thunderstorm.

When I do this, Thunder Accompanied. Thunder is perceived as a deep rumbling sound. The distance of an approaching storm or lightning can be easily determined. After you see a flash of lightning, you count the seconds until the thunder is heard. Three seconds equals almost exactly one kilometer, as sound travels through the air at a speed of about 340 meters per second. This means: If you divide the seconds counted between lightning and thunder by three, you get the distance in kilometers.

What can be done against lightning strikes on buildings?

Around 8,000 cases of damage to buildings due to lightning strikes are recorded in Switzerland each year, resulting in costs in the millions. When lightning strikes the house, no stone remains unturned. Major damage may occur not only in the building, but also in the direction of the apartment.

Who has to pay the damage?

Electrical appliances are very sensitive to short-term voltage fluctuations in the home electrical network. Many PCs, televisions or refrigerators have been said goodbye forever during a storm.

Who has to pay the damage? Building insurance is responsible for storm damage to the building. It is compulsory in most cantons. However, since this insurance does not cover the damage to the facility, it only concerns the home owner. If the sofa, table, or brand new HD big-screen TV catches fire, your home insurance will pay. While not required, this is a highly recommended investment.

How do you protect your home from lightning?

Fire prevention advice centre, especially in buildings without lightning protection system, e.g. B. lightning rods – follow a few rules of behavior in a storm to avoid damage in the first place:

1. Avoid showering and bathing.
2. Avoid contact with water pipes, gas pipes, electrical wiring or antenna cables.
3. Phone calls from a landline station can be dangerous.
4. Unplug sensitive devices (television, radio, PC).

Tips: Unplug electrical appliances for a short time when there is thunder and lightning outside. Also compare home insurance and choose the cheapest provider.

Source : Blick