Overview
- Local authorities say lightning struck a Cypress, Texas, home on Tuesday and electrical current traveled through the house wiring into a 13-year-old who was using his computer.
- Emergency crews extinguished a small attic fire caused by the surge, and EMS evaluated the teen on scene; he was not transported to a hospital.
- The family and insurance representatives reported possible two strikes — one to the roof and one to a nearby tree — and insurers inspected the home while the investigation remains open.
- University experts and officials explained that lightning can elevate voltage on a home’s electrical system so that corded electronics and metal parts become conductors of dangerous current.
- Authorities urged residents to avoid using corded phones and electronics and to stay away from wiring and plumbing during thunderstorms as a practical safety step and insurers review damage claims.