Should You Unplug Electrical Appliances During Thunder and Lightning? Panasonic Explains
Panasonic recommends using surge-protected power strips before storms arrive rather than unplugging appliances during thunder, as touching plugs during lightning poses electrical shock risks. The company warns that surge protectors degrade
Should You Unplug Electrical Appliances During Thunder and Lightning? Panasonic Explains
Compiled by Thairath Online News Team May 20, 2025
Reporting from international media: As the rainy season arrives, people must be vigilant about lightning hazards. If lightning strikes near your home, electrical equipment inside could be damaged. The question is: should people unplug their appliances to prevent damage?
Prepare Protection Before Storms Hit
Abnormal electrical voltage or current that occurs momentarily from lightning is called "lightning surge." This electrical current can enter your home through power lines, telephone lines, or television antennas, potentially damaging electrical appliances and computers.
Panasonic states that the key preventive method is to prepare protective measures before storms occur, such as using surge-protected power strips. While these cannot prevent all damage, they significantly reduce the risk. These power strips absorb excess voltage from lightning, minimizing the chance of appliance damage.
However, Panasonic warns that once a surge-protected power strip has absorbed excess voltage, its protection system may degrade or stop working. If the status indicator light goes out, replace it immediately. Additionally, they recommend obtaining insurance that covers lightning damage, especially for expensive appliances, to prepare for unexpected incidents.
Do Not Touch Plugs or Appliances When Thunder Starts
Panasonic also warns that when thunder is heard nearby, you should not touch electrical appliances or plugs due to the risk of electrical shock. Communication devices connected with multiple cable types—such as telephones, fax machines, or internet-connected appliances—are at particularly high risk of damage. People should avoid touching power plugs, television antennas, telephone lines, wireless phone chargers, and appliance plugs during thunderstorms.
Unplug Appliances If Power Goes Out
If the power goes out, Panasonic recommends unplugging appliances from outlets. When electricity returns, many appliances may start simultaneously, causing fuses to blow or breakers to trip. High-power devices like air conditioners or microwaves should be handled first.
While many believe you "should immediately unplug appliances when thunder starts," the correct advice is: do not touch plugs during thunderstorms, and instead unplug appliances after the power goes out. With severe thunderstorms becoming increasingly frequent, preparing protective measures in advance and learning proper procedures during storms are essential to effectively reduce lightning damage.
