The National Institute of Meteorology (Inmet) has issued a danger alert for severe storms in the Southeast region of Brazil starting this Friday (18). The forecast includes heavy rainfall of up to 100 millimeters per day and winds reaching up to 100 km/h. These adverse conditions pose significant risks, such as power outages, flooding, and even direct lightning strikes. In this context, understanding how to protect electronic devices is essential to minimize financial losses, avoid device damage, and, most importantly, ensure everyone’s safety.

Severe storms, particularly those involving lightning, represent a major risk to electronic devices. When lightning strikes the power grid or nearby metallic structures, it generates an extremely intense electromagnetic discharge that can travel through wires to household outlets, damaging connected devices. Although they may seem durable, devices like televisions, computers, refrigerators, and air conditioning systems are not designed to withstand the energy of a lightning strike.

Professor Michele Rodrigues, a specialist in Electrical Engineering at the Fundação Educacional Inaciana (FEI), highlights the impact of these discharges on internal circuits: “A single damaged component can affect the entire system, causing issues that spread to other devices connected to the same electrical network.” In other words, a power surge caused by lightning can burn multiple pieces of equipment simultaneously, resulting in significant losses and unexpected financial burdens from repairs or replacements.

Beyond the risk of damaging devices, storms also pose a direct threat to human safety. As explained by Edval Delboni, a professor of Electrical Engineering at the Instituto Mauá de Tecnologia, it is dangerous to use electronic devices connected to the power grid during storms. “Leaning on a refrigerator, touching metal equipment, talking on a wired phone, or even using a cell phone connected to a charger during a storm increases the risk of electric shock,” Delboni explains.

This warning also applies to using wired headphones or playing music on connected devices. Any metallic object linked to the electrical network can serve as a pathway for energy from a lightning strike to reach the user, posing serious risks of accidents and even severe injuries.

The Risk of Fires

Another concern is the risk of fires caused by electrical discharges. When lightning strikes a metallic object, the energy can create a spark capable of igniting nearby flammable materials such as wood, paper, or fabric. Michele Rodrigues explains: “Lightning can generate a spark that, in contact with flammable materials, creates favorable conditions for a fire to start.” To mitigate this risk, it is crucial to adopt preventive measures and know precisely how to protect electronic devices and appliances during storms.

Prevention is the best strategy to ensure the safety of devices and residents during severe storms. Below are the main recommendations from experts, along with explanations of each measure and their respective functions.

1. Turn Off and Unplug All Electronic Devices

Turning off and unplugging all electronic devices and appliances is the most effective measure against lightning and power surge damage. This simple action protects TVs, computers, kitchen appliances, and other sensitive equipment from potentially devastating surges. Additionally, it prevents future expenses on repairs and replacements.

2. Avoid Using Wired Phones and Charging Cell Phones

During a storm, avoid using wired phones or cell phones connected to chargers. Since lightning can cause power surges that travel through the network, using these devices can result in an electric shock. This recommendation also applies to other devices connected directly to the electrical grid, such as laptops or other gadgets, which should be used only when absolutely necessary and preferably unplugged.

3. Stay Away from Metallic Objects

During storms with lightning, avoid contact with metallic objects. Appliances, windows with metal frames, and even kitchen utensils can conduct electricity, becoming hazardous in the event of a power surge. For instance, it is advisable not to touch refrigerators, stoves, or even metal door handles during a storm.

4. Ensure Your Electrical System Has Proper Protections

A properly equipped electrical system with protective devices significantly minimizes the risk of damage during storms. The following devices are essential to protect a home against lightning and power surges:

• Thermomagnetic Circuit Breakers: These devices automatically interrupt the circuit in case of overload or short circuit, protecting the electrical circuits and connected devices.
• Residual Current Devices (RCDs): These devices detect grounding faults and cut off the power supply, preventing electric shocks and reducing the risk of accidents.
• Surge Protection Devices (SPDs): Installed at the main power panel, these devices absorb voltage spikes – common during storms – preventing surges from reaching connected devices. They are especially recommended in areas prone to frequent storms.
• Grounding Systems: Grounding directs excess energy into the soil, helping to dissipate electrical discharges and preventing them from circulating through the home’s electrical network. It is essential to reduce the risk of electric shocks and device overloads.
• Lightning Protection System (LPS): Commonly known as lightning rods, this system is crucial for buildings. It channels lightning energy directly into the ground, preventing it from striking the power grid and overloading devices.

5. Install Surge Protectors and Voltage Stabilizers

In addition to the devices listed, surge protectors and voltage stabilizers are useful for safeguarding electronic devices. While they cannot withstand a direct lightning strike, these accessories help filter minor voltage fluctuations, providing an additional layer of protection for sensitive equipment like computers and TVs.

6. Consider Using Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS)

For more delicate and expensive equipment, such as computers and security systems, using Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS) is a valuable option. These devices not only protect against power surges but also keep devices running for a few minutes during a power outage, allowing you to safely shut everything down.

For residents of regions frequently affected by storms, permanent protection is worth considering. Investing in a lightning protection system and a complete set of safety devices can pay off over time by preserving device longevity and reducing maintenance and replacement costs. Such installations should generally be carried out by a qualified professional to ensure compliance with electrical safety standards.

Taking precautions during a storm not only protects property but also ensures the safety of everyone in the home. By adopting these practices and installing electrical safety devices, it is possible to significantly reduce the risks associated with storms. If in doubt, seeking guidance from electrical professionals is advisable to ensure the installation is fully secure and ready to withstand any weather conditions.