Thunderstorm Safety: Experts Reveal the Most Dangerous Place Inside Your Home
Latvia experiences frequent summer thunderstorms, and while most are aware of the dangers of swimming during such events, a surprising and possibly fatal risk lurks within the home itself. Experts are highlighting the bathroom as the most perilous location to be during a thunderstorm, a fact frequently enough overlooked by those seeking shelter.
Thunderstorm researcher Anti Macela from the Finnish Institute of Meteorology emphasizes that lightning often strikes the highest point in an area. while this is a clear danger outdoors, leading to risks on beaches and in open fields, the danger indoors is more insidious. Macela explains that lightning doesn’t need to strike a house directly to pose a threat. A strike on a nearby tree, as an exmaple, can conduct electricity through the plumbing system into the house.
This makes bathrooms and showers particularly hazardous. the metal pipes and water taps act as excellent conductors of electricity. Therefore, avoiding contact with any metal water fixtures, including sinks, is crucial during a thunderstorm. Experts also advise disconnecting household appliances and television cables from the power grid to minimize the risk of electrical surges.
Regarding electronic devices,using a mobile phone during a thunderstorm is generally safe,provided it is not connected to a charger. This simple precaution prevents the device from becoming a conduit for electrical current.
while seeking refuge indoors during a thunderstorm is recommended, it’s vital to be aware of the specific risks within the home. The bathroom,due to its plumbing,presents a notable danger,and avoiding contact with water and metal fixtures is paramount for safety.
