OVERVIEW -> Direct and Indirect Effects

Direct Effects

Direct effects of lightning is burning, eroding, blasting and structural deformation caused by a direct arc attachment to the vehicle, facilities and/or shipping containers. Structural damage effects typically occur in the immediate area of the lightning model since that is where the current density is the highest. As lightning current enters a conductive structure, it rapidly spreads so that current density is quickly reduced to harmless levels. Damage may be extensive if current dispersion is prevented or if there is limited current-carrying capacity in the path taken by the lightning current.

Indirect Effects:

Indirect effects of lightning refers to the damage to or malfunction of electrical equipment that results from a nearby lightning flash. These effects may range from tripping a circuit breaker, to computer upset, to physical damage to input or output circuits of electronic equipment.

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