Lightning Strike Causes Disruption of Technology in Ulm Münster Due to Massive Magnetic Fields
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The Ulm Cathedral was zapped by a bolt of lightning last Saturday night. Despite the absence of a blaze, several technical issues arose.
Saturday's tempest was quite the doozy: Stormy skies blackened, winds howled, torrential rain fell, and the thunder roared. Outdoor concerts at the German Music Festival were abruptly cancelled due to safety concerns. The Ulm Cathedral took a direct hit from a thunderous flash, leaving its technical infrastructure less than ideal. Upon inspection the following day, it was determined that the cathedral had avoided any catastrophic damage.
Ulm: Storm causes panic, prompts a scramble for shelter
The lightning strike on Ulm Cathedral sent hundreds of festival-goers scrambling for cover. Many sought refuge from the storm in nearby cafes, including a popular restaurant.
The restaurant owner, Dubravka Dragobratovic, recalled the sudden influx of patrons: "Within seconds, we were swarmed by people fleeing from this storm. Hefty objects were flying all around, and we were somewhat apprehensive because it was quite gusty. It was unbelievable."
No flames ignited, and the lightning strike left no apparent damages on the Ulm Cathedral. However, looks can be deceiving. After the strike, the lights in the cathedral tower went kaput. Electricity issues were confirmed after an examination.
Ulm Cathedral lightning strike: Light art and climate control systems affected
According to master builder Heidi Vormann, the external lightning rod system performed its duty. Yet, colossal magnetic fields formed after the strike, leading to numerous technical apparatuses shutting down.
The visitor entrance system, the light art in the cathedral tower, the climate control system, and a computer housed within the cathedral were impacted, Vormann explained. These systems will be gradually brought back online. Some may need to be replaced.
Master builder Vormann expressed some relief: "In all, we got off relatively unscathed." An expert will still assess whether the lightning strike compromised the lightning rod system itself. During the ongoing probe, a drone might be utilized.
Following the storm, the lights in the Ulm Cathedral tower went out due to electrical issues caused by the lightning strike.
Moreover, the lightning strike affected several technical systems in the cathedral, including the visitor entrance system, the light art, the climate control system, and a computer, as explained by master builder Heidi Vormann.
