⚡Tuesday storms hit Andalucía, Aragón, and beyond
This Tuesday, the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) activated severe storm alerts, some reaching orange level due to significant risks across Andalucía, Aragón, Castilla y León, Cataluña, País Vasco, and La Rioja. These storms, with intense electrical activity, prompted safety recommendations for residents sheltering at home.
⚠️ Indoor risks during lightning storms
While most people understand the danger of being near trees, seas, rivers, or lakes during lightning storms, fewer consider the risks inside their homes. Lightning-induced power surges can enter homes through the electrical grid, damaging appliances and electronics.
Many homes are equipped with lightning rods and voltage protection systems, but these are not foolproof. Experts strongly advise unplugging devices from power outlets during storms, especially when lightning is close. However, there’s a critical mistake many make—even after pulling the plug.
📺 The overlooked danger: TV antenna cables
The television is often left connected to the antenna cable, which is commonly installed on the highest part of a building, making it highly exposed to lightning strikes. During a storm, electricity can travel through this coaxial line, directly into the TV circuitry, causing irreversible damage—even if the power cord is unplugged.
The only effective protection is to completely disconnect the antenna cable from the television. Relying on simply turning off the power strip or unplugging the device is not enough. This overlooked step is often the main reason behind post-storm malfunctions and electronic failures in households.
💡 Remember: when thunderstorms are forecast, the antenna cable can be the silent threat inside your home.
