Huge storms: Britain - and especially the South East - have had a number of big storms this month causing flash flooding and lightning damage
Huge storms: Britain - and especially the South East - have had a number of big storms this month causing flash flooding and lightning damage
June has been a washout month for the British weather, especially in London and the South East, with flash flooding and storms hitting many households and motorists.

As a result, one of Britain's biggest insurance firms, Direct Line, says June has had roughly 15 times the normal number of lightning claims with 200 so far with a week still to go.


One policyholder in Preston, Lancashire, claimed for £46,000 of damage after a single lightning bolt struck their home, it said.

This caused damage to the electrical system: CCTV cameras, intruder alarm, water features, telephone line, heating and lighting systems were just some of the listed items that required replacing in the insurer's biggest lightning claim to date.

The strike also damaged four flat screen TVs and Sky boxes together with a Bang & Olufsen sound system in the home's gymnasium.

Modern properties are filled with electrical items susceptible to power surges.

Microprocessors (small computer processors found in electronic devices) are sensitive to even minor power fluctuations, which can stop them working properly.

A lightning strike can cause extensive, instantaneous damage 'frying' circuits so the items have to be replaced.

Electrical items affected not only include high tech items such as tablets or home control units, but also large appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers and cookers.

Common claims from homeowners for lightning damage include replacement audio visual systems, routers and set top TV boxes.

Heavy rainfall in the South East saw a number of claims flood in, with Romford and Westminster the worst hit areas according to Direct Line data.

Liam Farnell, head of Direct Line's home field force, said: 'We take the current severe weather and flooding extremely seriously, and have put our emergency action plans into place.

'Our emergency response vehicles are on the ground in London and Essex, helping affected customers.

'Our priority is reassuring householders with home insurance policies and getting them back in their homes as quickly as possible.'