Whilst there is little available publicly on the number of fires caused by lightning, a team of experts have been measuring lightning strikes, density and consequential effects in Johannesburg. What we do know is that the frequency and severity of lightning and the consequences thereof have significantly increased in recent years. Lightning continues to be an ongoing challenge to home owners in the Gauteng region. This is indicated by the maps shown by the weather service for December 2019. 

Alexis Barwise, a lightning expert, reports that in 2019 we saw more than 30 thatched homes/lodges burn down and on 06 January 2020 we observed the first lodge burn down.

This raises several interesting observations that affect home owners and the risk management of their properties:

1. Lightning is increasing year-on-year (Estimated increase 20%);

2. Traditional lightning protection concepts do not guarantee the protection of the structure and its people; and

3. People seem to deem themselves experts after having attended a course or two, or after having practiced for a period. (Do not be fooled, research the contractor before appointing them)

On a recent nationwide collaboration with Barwise across South Africa, his message highlighted:

1.         Lightning and its effects are on the rise; and

2.         With the increased intensity of lightning, we cannot keep treating lightning protection in the same way we have done in years gone by.

These facts have led to the revision of the standards that govern lightning prevention equipment and the installation thereof. There has also been a move to professionalising the people who perform lightning protection installations to ensure that the installations are done correctly, and that the protection offered is sufficient for the lightning density of an area.

Barwise chairs the current SANS 10313 working group who is responsible for updating the national lightning protection standard, he also represents SA at the international lightning committees.

LIGHTNING RISK MANAGEMENT

• Familiarise yourself with lightning protection and power surge requirements and qualified installation companies and/or persons. Contact ELPA for more information.
• Have your lightning protection equipment tested and seek further advice where necessary.
• Know the lightning risk for the area in which you live.
• Regularly maintain equipment as recommended by manufacturers.
• Unplug essential electronic equipment during a storm to prevent the risk of damage.
• As a general guideline, ensure that plugs are not unnecessarily overloaded.

Did you know load shedding damages your electronics in the same way lightning does?

Did you know that both events can be prevented by fitting the correct surge protection device?

MUA now offers a complimentary lightning assessment service to all clients in the Gauteng region. Brokers who would like to make use of this complimentary service for their clients need to send their requests through to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and we will make all the necessary arrangements. This complimentary service will provide proactive risk management support to your insured.

Click pdf here (1.89 MB)  to have the PDF for download