More than 75,000 people in the United States filed home insurance claims for lightning-related damage in 2018. Although lightning can damage plumbing, electrical wiring, or even start fires, it is not the only problem.
In fact, your mother may have warned you as a child, telling you not to shower during a thunderstorm. It may sound like something out of a fairy tale. What could possibly happen? The harsh truth is that it can be very dangerous. Our top tip: If there's thunder and lightning outside, avoid taking a shower.
The essential
If lightning strikes your home or a metal used to build it, you could receive an electric shock in your shower. Metals are immensely used for the construction of houses, since we use them to make pipes in most cases.
Also, even if you have plastic pipes, don't think you're out of harm's way. Lightning can pass through the water in your shower head and out while you bathe. As the water flows, small air pockets can form between the water and the current. Despite the lack of running water, electricity can still be carried, but it is less efficient.
What about the rest?
The water in your entire home, including the bathroom, will be affected by a lightning strike. The bathroom isn't the only place you should avoid. For example, you should not wash your dishes or your hands during an electrical storm. Even worse: you can be struck by lightning while using the toilet - even if you're not sitting in the water, which would lead to many other problems. What an unpleasant feeling, isn't it?
We are all shaking in our boots. However, there is light at the end of the tunnel. If your home has been properly grounded, you have a chance. Most homes today have this feature due to current safety regulations. The only way to be sure is to call an electrician to come...
Nevertheless, we strongly advise you to avoid entering the shower if you detect or hear a thunderstorm approaching... and if you must enter, wait until it has passed.
P.S.: Also avoid shaving during lightning strikes. Rather, take the opportunity to get your new razor !
