LightningMaps.org

What LightningMaps.org actually is

Blitzortung is a network of hobbyist radio receivers that time the arrival of the pulse from each lightning strike and triangulate where it hit. LightningMaps draws the results live, with a sound for every detection and expanding circles showing which stations picked it up.

Why it is worth your time

The rings racing out from each receiving station and converging on a strike let you watch the triangulation happen rather than only see the result.

Common questions

Is LightningMaps.org free?

Yes. LightningMaps.org is free and does not ask you to register or hand over an email address before you can use it.

How long does LightningMaps.org take?

Good within five seconds of loading. We file it under "Instant" — individual strikes, plotted a second after they land.

Does LightningMaps.org work on a phone?

LightningMaps.org really wants a mouse and a wide window. It will load on a phone, but the experience is built for desktop.

What kind of site is LightningMaps.org?

We list it under The Live Planet — what earth is doing, right this second. The rings racing out from each receiving station and converging on a strike let you watch the triangulation happen rather than only see the result.