Lightning reaction from Météo-France

Lightning strike certificate

A lightning strike certificate supplied by the national forecaster Météo-France is an official document and is recognised by all insurance companies in France. The attestation de foudroiement accurately details storms (and associated aspects such as lightning) that occurred on a specific day in a particular area which could have caused material damage to a property or led to an accident.

It provides evidence that a storm was going on at the time of an incident for which a claim has been submitted, and will confirm – or not – that lightning strikes were recorded in the area where an insurance claim has been submitted.

Wondering why heatwaves are more common now in France than ever? Climate change is the cause

Storm data

Lightning strike data is collated by numerous sensors across France, which is then relayed to a central processor in Pau. It analyses and processes the information in real time to determine the location and characteristics of all detected strikes across France. It can be ordered at tinyurl.com/y8natxw9 and costs €61 plus taxes.

Normally, you will receive the certificate within a week of applying for it – and it gives details of strikes within 20km of your home. You can choose to receive the attestation through the post or by email.

For damage or accidents caused by other weather events (for example, strong wind, heavy rain, or very low temperatures), Météo-France recommends applying for its €62.50 weather certificate, le certificat d’intempérie.