Nebraska storm season can be unpredictable. Strong thunderstorms, lightning, heavy rain, hail, and high winds can all put stress on your home, especially your electrical system. While many homeowners think about roofs and windows, electrical safety is just as important when severe weather is in the forecast.
Taking time to prepare your home’s electrical system before storm season can help prevent power outages, equipment damage, and serious safety hazards. Here’s what Nebraska homeowners should know to stay protected.
Nebraska Storm Season and Electrical Risks
Storm season in Nebraska typically brings frequent thunderstorms and lightning, often accompanied by sudden power outages. When storms move through areas like Lincoln and surrounding communities, homes can experience electrical surges, damaged service lines, and water intrusion.
Electrical systems are designed to handle normal use, but extreme weather can expose weak points. Older panels, outdated wiring, and unprotected electronics are especially vulnerable during storms.
Common Electrical Problems Caused by Severe Weather
Storms can create several electrical issues, some obvious and others hidden behind walls or panels. Common problems include:
- Power surges caused by lightning strikes or grid disruptions
- Tripped breakers or blown fuses during storms
- Flickering or dimming lights after power is restored
- Water damage to outdoor outlets or electrical equipment
- Damage to overhead service lines from high winds or falling branches
Even if your power comes back on quickly, these issues can weaken your system and increase the risk of future failures or electrical fires.
Check Your Electrical Panel Before Storm Season
Your electrical panel is the control center of your home’s power. If it’s outdated or overloaded, storm-related surges can cause breakers to trip or fail entirely.
Before storm season, homeowners should consider:
- Having the panel inspected for wear, corrosion, or loose connections
- Ensuring proper grounding and bonding
- Identifying signs of an aging or undersized panel, such as frequent breaker trips
A professional inspection can reveal issues that aren’t visible to homeowners but could become dangerous during severe weather.
Surge Protection: Protecting Your Home and Electronics
Lightning doesn’t have to strike your home directly to cause damage. Nearby strikes can send powerful surges through power lines and into your home.
Whole-home surge protection helps:
- Shield major appliances like HVAC systems and refrigerators
- Protect electronics such as TVs, computers, and smart devices
- Reduce long-term repair and replacement costs
While plug-in power strips offer limited protection, a professionally installed surge protector adds a stronger layer of defense for your entire home.
Inspect Outdoor Electrical Components
Outdoor electrical equipment takes the brunt of storm exposure. Before storm season arrives, it’s important to inspect:
- Exterior outlets and ensure GFCI protection is working
- Weatherproof covers and sealed conduit
- Electrical connections for garages, sheds, or landscape lighting
- Overhead service lines connected to your home
Water and electricity are a dangerous combination, and damaged outdoor components can create safety risks during and after storms.
Backup Power Options for Nebraska Homes
Storm-related power outages are common during Nebraska summers. While not every home needs backup power, it’s helpful to understand your options.
Backup power considerations include:
- How often your area experiences outages
- Whether you rely on electricity for medical devices, sump pumps, or home offices
- The difference between portable and standby generators
Any generator system should be properly connected and installed by a licensed electrician to avoid backfeeding and other serious hazards.
When to Call an Electrician After a Storm
After a storm passes, some electrical problems aren’t immediately obvious. You should contact a licensed electrician if you notice:
- Burning smells, buzzing sounds, or warm outlets
- Breakers that won’t reset
- Persistent flickering lights
- Visible damage to electrical equipment or service lines
Avoid attempting DIY electrical repairs after storm damage. What looks minor can turn into a serious safety issue if left unchecked.
Helping Nebraska Homeowners Prepare for Storm Season
At Empire Electric, residential electrical safety is a top priority. Our team helps homeowners prepare for storm season with professional inspections, surge protection, panel upgrades, and post-storm assessments.
Serving Lincoln and communities across Southeast Nebraska, our licensed electricians focus on practical, code-compliant solutions that help protect homes before and after severe weather.
Get Storm-Ready Before the Next Storm Rolls In
Storm season is a part of life in Nebraska, but electrical problems don’t have to be. Preparing your home’s electrical system now can reduce risk, prevent costly damage, and give you peace of mind when storms hit.
If you want to make sure your home is ready for the season ahead, scheduling a professional electrical inspection is a smart place to start.
