Lightning-Related Fatalities During Smartphone Use While Connected to Power Outlets in Brazil: Case Analysis and Shock Current Simulation

Deaths caused by lightning are infrequent compared with other accidents of electrical origin (fires and electric shocks at industrial frequencies of 50/60 Hz). Deaths from lightning strikes inside buildings are even rarer. However, in Brazil, the global leader in the number of lightning strikes, there has been an increase in cases of electric shock caused by lightning, particularly involving victims using electronic devices (smartphones). This study, therefore, presents an analysis of 12 cases of death caused by lightning, with victims using a smartphone connected to the mains at the time of the accident. Subsequently, a simulation is presented, built on the analysis of the five reported fatalities. The victim was subjected to a typical lightning current (directly striking an electricity distribution line). The victim was using a recharging smartphone directly connected to the socket. A high-frequency human body model was used via the Electromagnetic Transients Program (EMTP) software. Based on the results of this study, there is an indication that damage to internal tissues can occur due to the circulation of an intense electric current, which can cause the death of victims. It is, therefore, recommended not to touch electronic devices connected to the mains during thunderstorms. Additionally, we evaluate the impact of surge protective devices (SPDs) in these situations, concluding that SPDs can significantly enhance survival chances for victims. The total charge decreases to approximately 25% with SPDs, and the total energy decreases by approximately 8%.