Rainy Season Warning: 5 Electrical and IT Devices to Protect from Lightning Hazards

As the rainy season and thunderstorms approach, one must be cautious of "dangers from lightning strikes" and power surges. Check these five electrical appliances and electronic devices that require caution and should be unplugged immediately.

During the rainy season, thunderstorms often bring lightning and thunder. While thunder is merely a warning signal, "lightning" is the real danger. Lightning can cause a brief high voltage surge, or "power surge," which travels through power and signal cables into homes, damaging appliances and especially "electronic devices" that are sensitive to electrical currents.

For personal safety and to prevent property damage, here are five groups of electrical appliances and electronic devices to watch closely when it rains and thunder signals lightning risk.Five precautions to observe during thunderstorms and heavy rain: what should you avoid?

Five electrical and IT devices to guard against lightning hazards

1. TVs and signal reception equipment

TVs connected to outdoor antennas or satellite dishes face high risk of damage from electrical currents running along signal cables during nearby lightning strikes. When hearing strong thunder, unplug both the power cord and signal cables immediately.

2. Computers and internet routers

Computers and Wi-Fi routers are highly sensitive to electrical fluctuations. Even minor surges caused by lightning can damage motherboards or hard drives. Additionally, power surges can enter through LAN cables connected from outside.

3. Smartphones and tablets while charging

Although smartphones are small, using them while charging during thunderstorms is very risky. Lightning-induced surges can cause electric current to shortcut through the charger adapter and harm the user.

4. Water heaters

Modern water heaters have safety cut-off systems (ELCB), but for maximum safety, avoid using them during heavy rain or severe lightning to prevent unexpected accidents from faulty grounding or electrical leakage.

5. Air conditioners

Outdoor air conditioner compressors are at risk of direct lightning strikes. Though rare, frequent power flickering or outages while the unit is running can overwork the motor or compressor, leading to deterioration and eventual failure.

How to prevent power surge hazards and respond properly

• Unplug unnecessary devices When heavy rain and thunder start, immediately unplug electrical appliances and signal cables to cut the circuit.
  
  
• Use surge-protected power strips Choose power strips certified by Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TISI) with Surge Protection to minimize initial damage to electronic devices during lightning events.
  
  
• Check grounding systems Every home should have a proper grounding system and regularly inspect wiring conditions. If damaged, stop using and repair immediately.

Thunder during rain is only a warning of lightning danger, which causes electrical instability. Being aware and cautious with high-power appliances and delicate electronics by unplugging when not in use and using certified protective devices is an easy, effective way to reduce damage and losses.