The short answer
What Causes the Flicker
Storm-driven rain can find its way into places it shouldn't, like around window frames, roof flashing, or vent pipes. Once water enters your walls or ceiling, it can travel along wires or drip onto electrical connections. Even a small amount of moisture can cause a short circuit or corrosion, which makes the current uneven and your lights flicker.
Another common source is water pooling near your outdoor electrical service entrance or meter box. If the seal there is worn, rain can penetrate and reach the main wiring. Loose connections from the storm's wind can also cause flickering, but moisture is the more likely culprit after a rainstorm.
Safety Steps to Take Now
First, turn off the lights and unplug anything on the flickering circuit. If the flickering is severe or you see sparks, switch off the main breaker to cut power to the whole house. Do not touch wet switches or outlets, and keep away from any standing water near electrical panels.
If you notice water stains on your ceiling or walls, or if the air smells musty, that's a sign of moisture intrusion. Avoid using the affected room until an electrician checks it. For your own safety, see a doctor if you feel unwell from any potential mold exposure, though the immediate priority is the electrical hazard.
- Turn off the affected circuit at the breaker panel
- Unplug devices on that circuit
- Avoid touching wet surfaces or switches
- Look for water stains on ceilings and walls
- Check for dripping water near light fixtures
- Keep children and pets away from the area
Call an Electrician First
An electrician can safely inspect your wiring, outlets, and panel for moisture damage. They can test for voltage irregularities and find where water entered. Fixing the source of the leak, such as a cracked roof boot or poor caulking, is part of their job, but they may also need to replace damaged wiring or fixtures.
If you live in Layton, keep the phone number of a trusted electrician handy for situations like this. While you wait for the electrician, do not try to dry out outlets with a hairdryer or use any DIY electrical repairs. Water and electricity are a dangerous mix, and only a qualified professional should handle it.
When Water Damage Is Involved
If the electrician confirms water damage, you'll need to address the moisture itself. Water that has soaked into drywall, insulation, or wood can lead to mold growth and structural issues. The longer it stays wet, the more damage it causes, so you should act quickly to dry things out.
You can use fans and dehumidifiers to help dry small areas, but for significant water intrusion, professional drying equipment may be necessary. Local water damage pros have industrial-grade dehumidifiers and moisture meters to ensure everything dries thoroughly. They can also assess hidden moisture in walls and ceilings that you might miss.
- Use fans and open windows to ventilate the area
- Run a dehumidifier to pull moisture from the air
- Remove wet furniture or rugs from the room
- Check for swollen drywall or peeling paint
- Document any damage with photos for your records
Dealing with Your Insurance
If the storm caused the water intrusion, your homeowner's insurance might help with repair costs. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. You'll need to contact them to file a claim and understand your deductible, but don't assume everything is covered. Take photos of the damage and keep receipts for any temporary repairs.
An electrician's report and a water damage inspection can provide documentation for your claim. If you need help with the drying and cleanup, local water damage pros can work with you to restore your home's safety, but they won't handle your insurance paperwork. You'll manage that directly with your insurer, so check your policy for specifics.
Talk to someone now
Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (801) 383-0232Frequently asked questions
Is flickering after rain always a sign of water damage?
Not always, but it's a strong indicator. Wind can loosen connections, but rain increases the chance of moisture entering your system. If the flickering happens only during or after storms, water is likely the cause. Have an electrician check it to rule out other issues like a faulty bulb or switch.
Can I fix a flickering light myself?
You can try tightening a loose bulb or checking the switch, but if the problem persists, stop. Water damage to wiring is not a DIY fix. An electrician has the tools to safely test circuits and find moisture. Attempting repairs without proper knowledge puts you at risk of shock or fire.
What should I do if my lights go out completely?
If the power goes out, check if your neighbors also lost power. If it's just your home, turn off the main breaker and call an electrician. Do not reset breakers repeatedly. If you smell burning or see discoloration on outlets, evacuate and call emergency services from outside.