Abstract: Current detecting of high voltage cable metal sheath is an effective means to detect anomalies in grounding system, but there are still shortcomings in quickly locating defects.Taking entire process of handling an abnormality in grounding system of 220 kV high voltage cables as a case, principle of resistance detection method in grounding circuit of high voltage cable metal sheath was studied.When there was an abnormality in grounding current detection of high voltage cable metal sheath, grounding circuit resistance testing method was used to continuously reduce the scope of defect and lock the defects in the second cross interconnection section.Finally, corrosion and detachment defects of fastening bolts in the third intermediate joint was found.Subsequently, defect elimination closed-loop work was quickly organized and completed.Results indicated that resistance detection method for grounding circuit of high voltage cable metal sheath could efficiently detect and locate defects in grounding system of high voltage cables.Based on the case, suggestions were put forward to avoid similar situations.