Juraisin Lightning Protection Systems

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Tree Struck by Lightning, Resulting Fire Burns Barn

June 1995 (Tochigi)

A cedar tree located behind a private residence in Imaichi City, Tochigi Prefecture, was struck by lightning which resulted in fire that burned down a small barn. 

 

The lightning flowed along the surface of the tree to the surface of the ground and to the barn.  The concrete under the rail of the aluminum sliding door at the entrance of the barn was destroyed and the lightning current entered the barn.  It destroyed agricultural equipment and ignited gasoline stored inside the barn, resulting in a fire.  The lightning also traveled about 100 meters along the road and entered three other private residences.  Home appliances and such were destroyed, resulting in a significant lightning accident. 

Although the house had a conventional lightning rod installed on its roof, the lightning struck the cedar tree located behind the house instead. 

The marks that the lightning made when it struck and traveled through the tree can be seen clearly. 

The electricity was discharged to the sash and concrete and the concrete was completely destroyed. 

Because the lightning current struck and traveled through the cedar tree, its upper branches have been burned. 

The lightning current flowed to the boiler located in the barn and resulted in fire.  According to witnesses, a metal pan and sickle that were stored in the barn were damaged and looked as if they had been chewed by a dog. 

Although the lightning struck the cedar tree behind the private residence, the electrical discharge was not released and the lightning current strayed to three houses located next door.  The electric current flowed to the houses through an earth cable and household appliances such as air conditioners, televisions, washing machines and such were destroyed by fire as a result.