Storms often cause harmful effects on electrical systems. Strong winds might damage power lines, or a surge from a lightning strike could destroy electrical wiring. Atlanta, Georgia, and surrounding areas are home to weather events like thunderstorms and tropical storms that can knock out power and cause electrical damage.
When storms damage electrical components, safety issues often arise. Knowing the dangers and some safety tips can make you more prepared for any weather that passes through your area.
Atlanta is a northern city in Georgia, meaning it experiences tropical weather from the coast and colder northern weather. Thunderstorms are the most common weather event in the state. Georgia also experiences high levels of lightning strikes, ranking 14th in total lightning counts per year. Strong winds and lightning strikes from thunderstorms often damage electrical systems.
Atlanta and surrounding areas also experience the effects of tropical storms. Storms that hit the coast of Florida and Georgia bring severe weather inland to Atlanta, with rainfall, high winds and flooding.
Past weather history shows less common events like tornados and winter storms also hit Georgia. Winter storms are more prevalent in northern areas like Atlanta, with high winds and light snowfall.
Severe weather often brings moisture, wind and lightning, which damages electrical systems. Staying safe around electrical hazards means knowing how to prevent or deal with these issues. Learn electrical hazards and safety measures for Atlanta and surrounding areas.
Water and electricity don’t mix. The first electrical safety tip you can use is to keep water from reaching electrical components in your home by installing weatherstripping and sturdy locks on your windows and doors. Ensure water flows away from your home by clearing downspouts and gutters. Clear gutters mean water flows into the ground rather than trickling down the walls of your house. Check exterior electric receptacles and switches for proper weather-proof covers, check exterior electrical panels have secured doors that will remain closed during high winds.
Lightning strikes can cause surges that damage electrical equipment. Install surge protectors for electronics to help prevent excess electricity from reaching your devices. If you expect a storm, unplug any electronics or devices you don’t need to reduce electrical dangers. For outdoor electrical equipment like your air conditioning unit or generator, ensure it is securely mounted to avoid damage from strong winds.
Before a storm, trim trees or branches that grow near power lines. During a storm, they could fall on lines and cause hazards unless you keep them clear. If tree limbs fall during a storm, don’t pull them off power, telephone or cable lines, as this could cause an electric shock.
When you see downed wires after storms, stay away to minimize the risk of electric shock. Never touch low-hanging wires or chain-link fences. Puddles or flooded areas may also become charged when power lines fall. In areas where electrical crews are repairing damage, avoid walking around the work site. When driving through the area, obey road signs and drive with caution.
In your home, learn where to find your main electrical panel and what it does. Familiarize yourself with the panel — especially how to shut off the main power supply. Knowing how to do this will allow you to quickly disconnect power to prevent further damage and address your electrical problems.
Severe weather like thunderstorms or tropical storms often knock out power — sometimes for hours or days. Backup power, like a portable or standby generator, allows you to keep essential functions in your home running. Strada Electric, Security, Air Conditioning & Heating can installed Battery Back-up lighting (up to 90 minutes) in key areas of your home to help you enter and exit your home safely.
Regular electrical maintenance can identify issues that could cause dangers during electrical shocks or other threats caused by storms. Expert technicians can maintain your system to ensure safety. If you experience electrical storm damage in Atlanta or nearby cities, call an expert to repair it rather than trying to perform repairs yourself. They will know how to make repairs without electrical danger.
Strada Electric, Security, Air Conditioning & Heating can ensure the safety of your electrical systems before, during or after a severe storm. Our company is licensed and certified to provide electrical services in your home, and our technicians are up to date on electrical building codes. We provide expert services to give you peace of mind — know your system will be safe through storms. Schedule an appointment online for repairs or maintenance of your electrical system.
