Rainy Season Warning: 5 Electrical Appliances and IT Devices to Beware of Lightning Hazards

As the rainy season and thunderstorm period begin, one must be cautious of "danger from lightning strikes." and power surges. Check these 5 electrical appliances and electronic devices that require caution and should be unplugged immediately.

During the rainy season, thunderstorms often bring thunder and lightning. While thunder is only a warning signal, "lightning" is the real danger. Lightning can cause a sudden high voltage or "power surge" that runs through electrical wires and signal cables into the home, causing damage to appliances, especially "electronic devices" which are vulnerable to electrical currents.

For personal safety and to prevent property loss, here are 5 groups of electrical appliances and electronic devices to watch carefully when it rains and thunder signals lightning.5 things to avoid during thunderstorms and heavy rain.

5 electrical appliances and IT devices to beware of lightning hazards.

1. TVs and signal receiving devices.

TVs connected to outdoor antennas or satellite dishes are at high risk of damage from electrical currents running through signal cables during nearby lightning strikes. If you hear loud thunder, unplug both the power cord and signal cables immediately.

2. Computers and internet routers.

Computers and Wi-Fi routers are very sensitive electronic devices vulnerable to electrical fluctuations. Even minor power surges from lightning can damage the motherboard or hard drive. Additionally, current can travel through LAN cables connected from outside as well.

3. Smartphones and tablets while charging.

Although smartphones are small devices, using them while charging during thunderstorms is highly risky. Lightning and power surges can cause electrical current to short-circuit through the charger, potentially harming the user.

4. Water heaters.

Althoughmodern water heaters have automatic cut-off systems (ELCB), for maximum safety, avoid using water heaters during heavy rain or intense lightning to prevent accidents caused by faulty grounding or electrical leaks.5. Air conditioners.

Outdoor air conditioner compressors are at direct risk of lightning strikes. Although such events are rare, frequent power flickers or outages while the air conditioner is running can overwork the motor or compressor, causing deterioration and eventual failure.

How to prevent damage from power surges and respond properly.

Unplug unnecessary devices.

• When heavy rain and thunder start, immediately unplug electrical appliances and signal cables to cut off the circuit. Use surge-protected power strips.
  
  
• Choose power strips certified by the Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TISI) with surge protection to reduce initial damage to electronic devices if lightning occurs. Check grounding systems.
  
  
• Every home should have a proper grounding system installed and regularly inspect wiring conditions of devices. If defects are found, stop using and repair immediately. Thunder during rain is only a warning sign of lightning danger, which causes electrical instability. Being aware and cautious with high-power appliances and fragile electronic devices by unplugging when not needed and using certified protective equipment is an easy and effective way to reduce damage.