We experienced 24 days last month with lightning and that is four more days than August 2014. To date this year we have had 99 days with lightning and that is 19 more days than what the National Weather Service says is average for our area of Central Florida. As highlighted by National Geographic, climate change could help create atmospheric conditions to spawn more thunderstorms and lightning in the future.
Last month a home which received a direct lightning strike and ensuing fire (you can read about that incident here http://villages-news.com/lightning-sparks-blaze-in-bridgeport-at-miona-shores/) brought the number to four for the homeowners in The Villages whose homes have become uninhabitable until repairs are complete.
This has caused an up tick in the interest of lightning protection systems commonly called lightning rods. Caution – there are firms that install lightning systems that fail to meet the national standard on lightning – buyer beware. To avoid being scammed seek bids only from firms that are listed by Underwriters Laboratories and who employ installers with the Master Installer designation by the Lightning Protection Institute.
Homeowners who are concerned with their lightning risk living here in the Lightning Capital of the US may wish to enroll in the Lifelong Learning College’s course, Lightning Tips for Villagers, that addresses personal lightning safety, lightning protection systems, surge protection, corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST) gas pipe, and debunking common myths about lightning. This is a non-commercial educational class and the instructors are not paid for their community service. Contact the Lifelong Learning College to enroll in a newly scheduled class on Sept. 16. There is also class on Oct. 1. Lightning Tips for Villagers is also available to Village clubs, civic, and church groups at no charge. Contact Len Hathaway at LHATHA@AOL.COM or Bob Freeman at STALIT1@AOL.COM.
Villager Len Hathaway is a recognized local expert on lightning.
