Lightning Strike Causes Fire at Cai Lay Substation: Risks and Lessons Learned

On August 31, 2024, the Cai Lậy substation in Tiền Giang faced a severe incident when it was struck by lightning, resulting in a fire. This event not only disrupted the power supply but also underscored the importance of bolstering protective measures against natural hazards, especially lightning.

Details of the Incident

In the afternoon of September 1, a strong thunderstorm occurred in the Cai Lậy area of Tiền Giang. According to Tiền Giang Power Company, a powerful lightning bolt directly struck the Cai Lậy substation, igniting a fierce fire. The flames spread rapidly, severely damaging the equipment inside the substation, complicating the restoration of power grid operations.

Emergency services and fire brigades were promptly dispatched to the scene to control the blaze. However, due to the complex nature of the fire and unfavorable weather conditions, it took several hours to fully extinguish the flames.

Causes and Impact

The main cause of the fire was identified as a direct lightning strike on the substation, leading to severe overload and short circuits. This incident caused widespread power outages, affecting thousands of households in the Cai Lậy area and surrounding regions.

Experts have pointed out that this incident serves as a stark reminder of the need to strengthen lightning protection measures at substations and other critical infrastructure. With increasingly severe climate change, it is essential to equip and maintain effective lightning protection systems to ensure the safety of the power system and avoid regrettable damages.

Lessons and Solutions 

The incident at the Cai Lậy substation clearly demonstrates the dangers that lightning can pose to critical infrastructure. To prevent similar incidents, substations need to be equipped with modern lightning protection systems, including lightning rods, surge protection devices, and fire risk mitigation measures.

Moreover, regular inspections and maintenance are crucial to ensure that lightning protection devices function effectively. Raising awareness and providing training for technical personnel are also key factors in ensuring timely and effective responses to emergencies.

Lightning protection for power lines with Terrastat charge dissipation Terminals

The lightning strike that caused a fire at the Cai Lậy substation is an unfortunate event but also a powerful warning about the necessity of investing in and maintaining lightning protection systems. This is a lesson not only for the power sector but for all fields in protecting infrastructure from natural hazards.

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