Risk of Lightning in Sri lanka
Lightning strikes are a dangerous and unpredictable phenomenon that can occur anywhere in the world, and Sri Lanka is no exception. With its tropical climate and frequent thunderstorms, the country is at a relatively high risk of lightning strikes. Sri Lanka is located close to the equator, which means that it experiences a tropical climate with high temperatures and humidity levels throughout the year. These conditions are ideal for thunderstorm formation, and as a result, Sri Lanka experiences frequent thunderstorms, particularly during the monsoon season, which lasts from May to September.
According to the Disaster Management Center of Sri Lanka, lightning strikes are one of the most common natural disasters in the country. In 2020, there were over 60 reported deaths due to lightning strikes, with many more injured or left homeless. These strikes can cause significant damage to property and infrastructure, as well as posing a significant risk to human life.
Lightning protection systems are designed to provide a path of least resistance for lightning strikes to follow, thereby minimizing the risk of damage to structures and harm to people. These systems typically consist of three main components: air terminals (also known as lightning rods), down conductors, and grounding systems.
Air terminals are typically installed at the highest points of a structure and are designed to attract lightning strikes. They are typically made of a conductive material, such as copper or aluminum, and are connected to down conductors that carry the electrical current down to the ground.
Down conductors are typically installed on the exterior of the structure and provide a safe path for the electrical current to follow. They are usually made of a heavy-duty conductor, such as copper or aluminum, and are connected to grounding systems.
Grounding systems provide a safe path for the electrical current to dissipate into the ground. They typically consist of one or more grounding rods, which are driven into the earth near the base of the structure, and a conductor that connects the grounding rods to the down conductors.
There are several types of lightning protection systems available, including Franklin systems, Faraday cages, and Charge Transfer Systems. Franklin systems are the most common type of lightning protection system and consist of a series of air terminals connected by down conductors and grounding systems. Faraday cages are designed to enclose a structure and provide a protective shield against lightning strikes. Charge Transfer Systems use a network of conductors to transfer the electrical charge from a lightning strike away from the structure.
It is important to note that lightning protection systems do not guarantee complete protection against lightning strikes, but they can greatly reduce the risk of damage and injury. Proper installation and maintenance of these systems is essential to ensure their effectiveness. Consulting with a qualified lightning protection specialist is recommended to determine the best system for a specific structure or property.
