When the Roof Came Off, the Lightning Experts Went Up
TAMPA BAY, FL — In October 2024, Hurricane Milton tore through Florida as a Category 3 storm, leaving widespread destruction in its wake. One of the most dramatic images came from Tropicana Field, where violent winds ripped the roof from the iconic stadium, home of the Tampa Bay Rays.
Lightning Protection After the Storm
While crews rushed in to assess structural safety and begin rebuilding efforts, one team was already thinking ahead—to the next threat. All South Lightning Protection was on site from the onset, evaluating how to safeguard the stadium from lightning once reconstruction began.
The hurricane had completely destroyed the stadium’s original Faraday lightning protection system. With the City of St. Petersburg working against the clock to reopen the dome in time for the 2026 baseball season, the challenge was clear: design and install a stronger, modern lightning protection system—quickly, safely, and flawlessly.
Coordinated Effort and Safety Planning
Working alongside AECOM Hunt and APG Electric, All South Lightning Protection coordinated with engineers, roofers, crane operators, and safety professionals through countless in-person meetings, phone calls, and virtual planning sessions. Safety planning began immediately, including specialized rope access systems, new harnesses, and daily in-house training for crews working hundreds of feet above the field.
The ESE Preventor Systems – Lightning Protection System
The solution: a new Early Streamer Emission (ESE Preventor Systems) lightning protection system, anchored by five custom-built 20-foot masts designed to withstand hurricane-force winds.
Four of the masts were installed along the stadium’s perimeter, where the angled walls and sloped roofline required precision crane work by A Crane USA to keep each mast perfectly plumb while being bolted into place. Custom anchors were engineered to ensure long-term wind mitigation.
The Center Dome Installation
The most demanding installation took place at the very center of the dome—245 feet above home plate. Reaching the location required climbing a 274-step catwalk multiple times a day, carrying tools, safety equipment, and materials by hand. To access the steel structure, sections of roof and metal decking were carefully removed, all while roofers worked nearby and wind conditions remained unpredictable.
A custom mast and bracketing system was engineered specifically for the dome’s unique geometry. The mast was fabricated by Clanton Welding, cold-galvanized for corrosion protection, and flown into place using a crane inside the stadium. Crews coordinated the operation using walkie-talkies and drone surveillance, guiding the mast into position before bolting it directly to the steel frame of the cupola.
Throughout the project, APG Electric worked side-by-side with All South Lightning Protection, ensuring crews had everything they needed to complete the job safely and efficiently.
Mission Accomplished
Today, Tropicana Field stands fully protected by a lightning protection system backed by a $10 million warranty. Most fans will never notice the tall masts watching over the stadium—but they’ll never see lightning the same way again.
As All South Lightning Protection moves on to the next project, their work remains quietly visible across Florida and beyond. If you look up and spot a small rod standing watch atop a building, chances are—they were there.
Protect Your Property with Expert Lightning Protection
Don’t wait for the next storm to threaten your building. Contact All South Lightning Protection today for a professional lightning protection assessment and installation.
