No, lightning can't travel through a cordless phone used indoors because it doesn't have a direct conductive path to the outside.
Is it safe to use TV during lightning?
Generally, yes—using a TV during lightning is safe if it's not connected to an outdoor antenna or cable, though power surges can still damage the TV.
Those old plasma screens and CRT televisions? They're particularly vulnerable to surge damage, even without a direct strike. The CDC suggests using battery-powered devices or unplugging electronics entirely during storms. If you're determined to watch TV, a battery-powered or smart TV with internal storage is your best bet. For more details on how lightning behaves with electronics, check out how lightning travels through TVs.
Can you get electrocuted on a landline phone?
Yes, there's a real risk if lightning strikes a landline connected to outdoor wiring—the electrical current can travel through the phone line.
Now, don't panic—this is rare, but it happens. A National Weather Service report found that between 2006 and 2021, 38% of lightning-related injuries involved indoor activities, including landline phone use. Play it safe: avoid corded phones during thunderstorms, even if you're inside. To learn more about how lightning interacts with outdoor systems, read about cloud-to-ground lightning.
Is it safe to use Internet during lightning?
Wi-Fi internet is fine to use—lightning can't travel through wireless signals, but wired connections are a different story.
Here's the thing: modems and routers hooked up to external cables can still be at risk if a nearby surge hits. The FCC recommends unplugging all wired internet devices during storms. If storms are frequent where you live, a surge protector for your modem might be worth the investment. For additional safety tips, explore travel protection strategies during severe weather.
Are cordless phones safe in a thunderstorm?
Absolutely—cordless phones are safe indoors during a thunderstorm because they don't use outdoor wiring.
They run on radio waves and have no physical connection to the outside, so lightning can't sneak through. That said, don't use them outdoors during a storm—they become conductive metal objects. Keep the base unit unplugged to avoid surge damage. For more on grounding and safety, see how tall structures handle lightning strikes.
Are cordless phones safe during thunderstorms?
Yes, as long as they're not plugged into a charger or base station connected to wiring.
Unlike landlines, cordless phones don't give lightning a conductive path to sneak in. The Mayo Clinic points out that the real danger is being outside holding a metal object during a strike. Use cordless phones indoors during storms—no worries there.
Can lightning damage phones?
Indoors, lightning can't damage phones by traveling through them, but power surges can still wreck devices.
Modern smartphones are insulated from direct strikes, but a nearby bolt can still send a surge through charging cables or power outlets. The NOAA National Severe Storms Laboratory confirms that phones used indoors aren't at risk from lightning following radio waves. Still, always unplug chargers during storms—better safe than sorry.
Should we switch off mobile during lightning?
No need to turn off mobile phones during lightning—they won't attract strikes or get damaged by them.
Mobile phones don't act as lightning magnets, and indoor phones are safe from direct strikes. The CDC says the real risk comes from power surges through outlets, not from the phone itself. So skip turning it off—just unplug it if it's charging.
Can I cook during a thunderstorm?
It's smarter to hold off on cooking during a thunderstorm, especially with gas stoves or electrical appliances.
Gas stoves can conduct electricity if struck, and electrical appliances might fry from surges. The National Weather Service suggests waiting until the storm passes before firing up any kitchen gadgets. Better to skip the risk entirely. For insights on grounding systems, consider reading about lightning rod functions.
Can you poop during a thunderstorm?
Yes, you can safely use the toilet during a thunderstorm—there's no electrical or medical danger.
Plumbing systems are grounded, so toilets, showers, and sinks won't put you at risk. That old myth about lightning striking through pipes? Pure fiction. The CDC confirms indoor plumbing is safe during storms—just avoid outdoor plumbing or metal pipes.
Should I unplug electronics during a thunderstorm?
Yes, unplugging electronics during a thunderstorm protects them from power surges caused by nearby lightning.
A surge can zip through power lines even if lightning doesn't hit your house directly. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security advises unplugging non-essential electronics to avoid damage. For devices you can't unplug—like refrigerators or security systems—a surge protector is a solid backup plan.
Edited and fact-checked by the FixAnswer editorial team.
