According to Meteo France, the average house is struck by lightning once in every 800 years, whereas the Eiffel Tower is struck by lightning 10 times per year. As the tower is such a pronounced object it effectively acts as a giant lightning rod and is often struck by lightning.
What time is the lightning at the Eiffel Tower?
dusk until 11.45pmThe Tower lights and beacon are lit up every evening from dusk until 11.45pm. As soon as it gets dark, the Eiffel Tower's golden lighting switches on automatically within less than 10 minutes, thanks to light-sensitive twilight sensors.
What happens when lightning strikes Eiffel Tower?
When that happens, the lattice structure of the Tower plays a protective role and acts like a Faraday cage, a sort of metal enclosure that directs the energy of lightning to the ground, only through the outside of the building.
Does the Eiffel Tower close during storms?
What time does the Eiffel Tower stop lighting up?
Except during summer, when the Tower closes at 00:45 : the Tower lights and beacon are switched off at 1.00am, except for the sparkling lights remaining during a few minutes. A truly magical moment not to be missed!
How does the Eiffel Tower resist wind?
The curvature of the uprights is mathematically determined to offer the most efficient wind resistance possible. As Eiffel himself explains: "All the cutting force of the wind passes into the interior of the leading edge uprights.
How far does the Eiffel Tower sway on windy days?
On windy days, the tower sways about 6 to 7 centimetres (2 to 3 inches) and during cold weather, the tower shrinks about 6 inches. Overall, the height varies about 15 centimetres (5.9 inches).