A Florida couple’s toilet exploded while they were in bed on Sunday when lightning struck their septic tank.
I know what you are thinking. “WTF?”
Here’s why, methane gas. Who knew that many of us here in Florida (and around the world) have big ‘ol methane bombs in our yards waiting to be ignited by lightning.
Jordan Hagadorn of A-1 Affordable Plumbing Inc. (who fixed the couples plumbing nightmare, told USA TODAY, “Methane gas is gas caused by the number two. The natural gas is from crap, literally.”
The porcelain of the toilet actually penetrated the wall of their master bathroom when it was blown to pieces by electriciy traveling through the pipes. Even parts of the windows blew out. The sanitary pipe is completely gone, the lid of the septic tank blew off and the toilet was demolished, too, he said. It’s going to be a big job to fix.
GUARANTEED YOU HAVE NEVER HEARD A STORY LIKE THIS.No more pooping while it’s storming outside.Lightening struck this…
Posted by A-1 Affordable Plumbing inc. on Sunday, August 4, 2019
According to NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) lightning expert, John Jensenius, lightning can strike you while standing in the shower or sitting on the toilet. “There have been documented incidents of people injured on toilets,” according to Newsweek.
Yes, most strikes happen outside but NOAA advises that lightning normally enters a structure three ways direct strike, through wires or pipes which enter the building from outside, or through the ground. Lightning travels through metal wires, plumbing and metal bars located in the walls and flooring.
Here are recommendations from NOAA for staying safe while indoors during a lightning storm:
- Stay off corded phones. (cellular or cordless phones)
- Don’t touch electrical equipment such as computers, TVs, or cords. Remote controls may be used safety.
- Avoid plumbing. Do not wash your hands, take a shower or wash dishes.
- Stay away from exterior windows and doors that might contain metal components.
- Stay off balconies, porches and out of open garages or car ports. Do not lie on concrete floors or lean against concrete walls.
- Bring in your pets! Dog houses are not safe shelters. Do NOT chain your pets outside (ever).
- Protect your stuff: Lightning creates electric surges that can damage electronics – even at a distance from the strike. Typical surge protectors will not protect equipment from a lightning strike but make sure you don’t unplug equipment during a thunderstorm – you could be struck.
[h/t USA Today]
