Thunderstorms! How should you prepare?

We are approaching summer, sun and warm weather but with the rise in temperature comes its drawbacks too. Namely, thunderstorms, and with that comes lightning, which can be dangerous for home appliances that run on electricity. A lightning strike near the property or near the power grid connected to the property can cause a temporary spike in voltage which can damage home electrical appliances.

Thunderstorms are among Sweden's most dangerous weather phenomena

The thunderstorm season in Sweden starts in May and lasts until September. During these months, precipitation is also at its highest throughout Sweden. Thunderstorms are among Sweden's most dangerous weather phenomena. Hail, lightning, heavy thunderstorms and flooding are among the dangers of thunderstorms. Thunderstorms can kill, injure or cause fires, but they usually cause material damage.

For example, there are cases where large hail from thunderclouds has shattered car windshields and dented sheet metal. No need to panic though, as long as you remember some basic instructions. An old and safe safety measure is to disconnect electrical appliances from the sockets when there is a thunderstorm, it is not enough to simply turn off the power from the switch.

Modern technology is sensitive to the surges in power grids that lightning can cause.

Technologies most at risk of damage are computers, refrigerators and freezers. Lightning does not have to strike close to the building to cause damage to your electrical appliances. Surges can travel several kilometers through power and telecommunications lines into buildings and damage electrical appliances connected to the grid.

To protect your appliances, you can install sockets with lightning protection or attach surge protectors to the sockets to protect electrical appliances from possible damage caused by lightning. If you want to use electrical appliances during a thunderstorm, you should get surge protectors.

Surge protectors and lightning arresters can be installed in new buildings to protect the home from lightning, so there is no need to worry about pulling plugs from sockets or installing surge protectors. 

Tips for thunderstorms:

• Disconnecting electrical appliances
• Do not swim outdoors and avoid open water

• Avoid open areas when you are out
• Move indoors when thunder surprises you

• Avoid using the elevator due to possible power outages
• Close doors and windows during thunderstorms to prevent lightning from entering

• Check that your insurance covers any damage caused by thunderstorms before the damage occurs.

After the storm

• Check the building's roof, chimney and windows for any damage
• Clearing blocked gutters

With thunder and lightning also comes flooding. 

Sweden has the most rainfall during the summer months from July to August and we at 24 Center have noticed that during these months, the need for water trucks also tends to shoot up into the sky. So how should you prepare for flooding?

It pays to get a bilge pump for the basement well in advance, prepare yourself by familiarizing yourself with the pump and learning how to use it. Do not store electronics in the basement as they are easily damaged by water and moisture. If water starts to enter the house, it is advisable to turn off the main switch so that electrical appliances and systems are not damaged or to minimize the damage. Water can also enter the property from floor drains and sewers. You can block them with sandbags, for example.

If that doesn't help and you have flooding at home, it's best to order a vacuum truck to come and remove the water.

If you have a flood and need a water truck or vacuum truck, 24 Center will help you. Call 020 742 470! Damage caused by thunder and lightning should always be dealt with by professionals. Do not try to repair damage to electricity networks caused by lightning strikes on your own.

Call the 24 Center on 020 742470 if you have suffered damage due to thunder or lightning. The customer service is open 24/7 and we are always ready to help you!