After a storm passes, power comes back — but the internet doesn't. This is incredibly common. Storms can damage equipment, knock out ISP infrastructure, and create power surge problems. Here's how to systematically get back online.
Step 1: Check for ISP Outage
- Use your phone's cellular data to check your ISP's outage page
- Check Downdetector.com for your ISP
- Call your ISP's automated outage line — they usually announce known storm-related outages
- Check social media — neighbors may have posted about outages
- If there's a widespread outage, wait for ISP to fix it — your home equipment may be fine
Step 2: Proper Power Cycle
- Unplug everything: modem, router, any switches/access points
- Wait 2 full minutes (longer than usual to let capacitors fully drain)
- Plug in modem FIRST → wait until all lights stabilize (3-5 minutes)
- Then plug in router → wait until WiFi light is on (2 minutes)
- Test internet connection
Step 3: Inspect for Physical Damage
- Modem/router won't turn on: Power supply may be fried — try a different outlet, check for burning smell
- Lights are abnormal: All lights blinking or certain lights not coming on may indicate hardware damage
- Check coaxial cable (cable internet): Make sure the cable from the wall is securely connected, not damaged
- Check outside line: Look for downed wires, fallen tree branches on cables (do NOT touch fallen wires — call ISP)
- Check ONT (fiber internet): ONT box may need power cycle or battery replacement
Step 4: Check Surge Protector
- If your equipment was on a surge protector, check the protection indicator light
- If the protection light is off, the surge protector absorbed a spike and is used up — replace it
- Try plugging the modem/router directly into the wall outlet to test if the surge protector is the issue
- Note: surge protectors protect against small surges only — a nearby lightning strike can overwhelm them
Step 5: Contact Your ISP
If everything on your end looks fine but internet still doesn't work:
- Call your ISP and report the outage
- Ask them to send a refresh signal to your modem (remote re-provisioning)
- If that doesn't work, request a technician to check the line to your house
- If your rented modem is damaged, ISP will replace it for free
- Ask about service credits for the downtime — most ISPs provide credits for extended outages
Step 6: Damaged Equipment — What to Replace
| Symptom | Likely Damaged | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Modem won't power on | Power supply or modem | Contact ISP for replacement |
| Router turns on but no WiFi | WiFi radio damaged | Replace router |
| Ethernet ports dead | Ethernet controller surge | Replace device or use USB adapter |
| ONT lights off | ONT power or battery | Contact fiber ISP |
Prevention for Future Storms
- Unplug networking equipment before storms — both from power AND coaxial/phone lines
- Use a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) with surge protection
- Install a whole-home surge protector at the breaker panel
- Use a coaxial surge protector on the cable line entering your house
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a thunderstorm damage my internet equipment?
Yes. Lightning strikes can damage: (1) Modem/router via power surge through the electrical outlet, (2) Modem via surge through the coaxial cable (cable internet), (3) Ethernet ports via surge through phone/cable lines, (4) ONT device (fiber), (5) Outside wiring — the ISP's line from the pole/underground to your house.
How long does it take ISPs to fix storm damage?
Depends on severity: (1) Simple ISP-side reboot: 1-4 hours, (2) Local node equipment damage: 4-24 hours, (3) Cable/line damage to your house: 1-3 days (technician dispatch needed), (4) Major infrastructure damage (widespread): 1-7 days. During widespread storms, ISPs prioritize by number of customers affected.
Should I unplug my modem during a storm?
YES — unplugging is the best protection against lightning damage. Surge protectors help with small surges but can't protect against a direct or nearby lightning strike. Unplug: (1) Modem/router from power, (2) Coaxial cable from modem (lightning can travel through cable lines), (3) Ethernet cables from computers.
My modem/router survived but internet still doesn't work — why?
Even if your equipment is fine, the ISP's infrastructure may be damaged: (1) Neighborhood node/amplifier struck by lightning, (2) Utility pole wires damaged by wind/falling trees, (3) Underground cable flooded with water, (4) ISP's central office equipment affected. Check your ISP's outage page — this is their problem to fix.
Will my ISP replace storm-damaged equipment for free?
If you rent the modem from your ISP (most cable companies), yes — they'll replace it at no charge. If you own your modem, it's your responsibility. Some homeowner's/renter's insurance policies cover storm damage to electronics — check your policy. Keep receipts for any equipment you purchase.
Internet Still Down After the Storm?
Our technicians can help diagnose damage and coordinate with your ISP.