What Lightning Really Damages: A Plano Texas Homeowner’s Guide to Hidden Hazards and Claim Success

Lightning Strike Investigators
7 days ago
3 min read

Lightning strikes pose a serious threat to homes and families, especially during severe storms. The Plano Fire Department responded to several house fires overnight and early Thursday morning. Officials said lightning is likely the cause. These incidents highlight the hidden dangers that come with lightning strikes and the critical steps homeowners must take to protect their property and loved ones. This post explains why it is unsafe to re-enter a home immediately after a lightning strike, even if the fire department has cleared the area, and offers practical advice on how to handle the aftermath safely.

Eye-level view of a residential house damaged by lightning strike with visible scorch marks on the roof — House damaged by lightning strike in Plano, Texas

Why Lightning Strikes Can Cause Hidden Damage

Lightning carries an enormous electrical charge that can travel through a home’s wiring, plumbing, and structural materials. While the immediate effects of a strike may be visible, such as scorch marks or small fires, the real danger often lies beneath the surface. Electrical systems can sustain damage that is not obvious at first glance. This damage can cause smoldering fires that ignite hours or even days after the initial strike.

In Plano, Texas several homes were struck by lightning during recent storms. Firefighters responded quickly and extinguished visible flames, but some homeowners, especially those that did not have flames returned too soon. Without a thorough inspection, hidden electrical faults remained, putting these homes at risk of secondary fires...days, weeks, even months later.

The Risks of Re-Entering Your Home Too Soon

Returning to a home right after a lightning strike can be extremely dangerous. Even if the fire department has declared the area safe, unseen hazards may still exist. Here are some reasons to avoid re-entry:

Hidden electrical faults can cause sparks or smoldering fires.
Damaged wiring may lead to electrical shocks or short circuits.
Structural damage could make parts of the home unsafe to walk through.
Gas lines or appliances might be compromised, increasing the risk of explosions or leaks.

For these reasons, it is critical to stay out of the home until a certified lightning strike specialist has completed a full inspection.

Immediate Steps to Take After a Lightning Strike

If lightning hits your home, follow these safety steps to reduce the risk of further damage:

Turn off circuit breakers immediately. This cuts power to the home and prevents electrical surges from causing fires.
Avoid using any electrical appliances or switches until the home has been inspected.
Do not attempt to inspect or repair damage yourself, especially if you see scorch marks or smell burning.
Contact emergency services if you notice smoke, flames, or unusual sounds.
Arrange for a professional inspection by a certified lightning strike specialist before re-entering.

The Importance of a Certified Lightning Strike Specialist Inspection

A certified lightning strike specialist has the training and tools to detect hidden damage that typical inspections might miss. They will:

Check the entire electrical system for faults or damage.
Inspect plumbing and gas lines for leaks or breaks.
Assess structural integrity, especially in areas near the strike point.
Recommend repairs or replacements to ensure the home is safe.

This thorough inspection is essential to prevent secondary fires and protect your family.

How to Prepare Your Home for Lightning Safety

While lightning is unpredictable, you can take steps to minimize damage:

Install lightning rods and grounding systems to direct strikes safely into the ground.
Use surge protectors on electrical panels and sensitive devices.
Regularly inspect your home’s wiring and electrical systems.
Keep trees trimmed and remove dead branches near your home.
Have an emergency plan in place for severe weather events.

What to Do If Your Home Has Been Struck

If your home has been hit by lightning:

Call your local fire department to report the strike and any visible damage.
Do not enter the home until emergency responders give the all-clear.
Turn off the main circuit breaker if safe to do so.
Contact a certified lightning strike specialist for a full inspection.
Follow all recommendations for repairs before moving back in.

Why Lightningstrikeinvestigators.com Is Your Best Resource

When dealing with the aftermath of a lightning strike, professional help is crucial. Lightningstrikeinvestigators.com specializes in inspecting homes after lightning incidents. Their experts provide: