Pictured here is called a service cable. It’s the large wire that enters from the utility company giving a premises the voltage that it needs. This Cable is often exposed to natures elements. It is prone to become dry-rotted resulting in small or large cracks exposing the inside cables! This allows for water from rain and snow to penetrate the outer sheathing and enter the cable creating oxidation and potentially hazardous conditions. Homeowners should perform visual analysis regularly for these conditions and have them corrected if in violation. However some homes have underground service and this cable is absent in that system.