When The Sky Falls In…
Name: Jonathan Jagot Age: 26 Specialty: has been sailing around the world for over 13 years
Image
Image
1
/
1
Publié le
30/01/2025
Par
Jonathan Jagot
Numéro :
200
Parution :
Mar.
/
May.
2025
An isolated multihull, with its mast dominating the horizon, can attract lightning - these incidents are exceptional, as the statistical risk for any given boat is 1/1,000 each year worldwide. However, here in the San Blas, the risk is undoubtedly higher, given the frequency of thunderstorms in the area.
The consequences of a lightning strike can be dramatic: electronics can be fried, and in some cases, hulls and rigging can be damaged. A thru-hull can explode, a chainplate blow up...
To protect yourself, you can install a system that links the mast to a submerged metal plate to help channel the energy; a charge dissipator can also reduce the risks. In the event of a thunderstorm, remember to unplug your appliances, avoid touching metal parts, and put your equipment (particularly telephones) in the oven, which acts as a Faraday cage, just like a car.
