Articulating the Threat of the Lightning Phenomenon in Zambia

The lightning phenomenon is an intriguing natural hazard not widely studied in Zambia. Lightning protection of installations is very specific to a particular region and thus it requires studies done in Zambia too and see how this phenomenon in Zambia affects the installed structures such as buildings, power and telecommunication lines. The ubiquitous overhead power lines and other tall structures can attract direct or indirect lightning strikes and their effects can easily end up into our buildings. There are more structures earmarked for development such as stand-alone mini grids, grid extension and buildings by both the government and the private sector. For instance, Engie Power Corner Zambia plans to install 60 mini grids around the country. Thus, it is imperative to articulate the lightning phenomenon in the country so as to see which lessons can be learnt from the existing structures in order to leverage the management of upcoming installations. This paper considers the work done on lightning protection of various structures in the country and seeks ways to explain the threat that still remains despite the fact that lightning is one subject that has been extensively studied worldwide.