What is LightningMaps.org?
LightningMaps.org is a real-time lightning map built on data from Blitzortung.org, a community network of volunteer-run detection stations. Strikes appear on the map as they are detected, so you can watch a storm move across a region. The site has views for Europe, the Americas and Oceania, as well as animations and statistics.
It is a popular way to see thunderstorm activity right now, and to learn how a volunteer sensor network locates strikes. Anyone interested can look into hosting a station through the main project. The site says its data is for entertainment only, so use official weather warnings for safety decisions.
Main Features
- Real-time lightning map
- Regional views for Europe, the Americas and Oceania
- Animation and statistics pages
- Data from the Blitzortung.org volunteer network
- Interface in many languages
- Companion apps
- Information for people who run a detection station
How to Get Started with LightningMaps.org
- Open lightningmaps.org in your browser.
- Choose Real Time or a region from the menu.
- Zoom in on the area that interests you.
- Watch new strikes appear on the map.
- Check official weather services for any safety decision.
LightningMaps.org Pricing
LightningMaps.org is free and describes itself as a community project, with no paid plan. Hardware for running a detection station is handled separately through Blitzortung.org.
Who Should Use It?
- Weather enthusiasts tracking storms
- Students learning about lightning and sensor networks
- People curious about a storm nearby
- Hobbyists interested in running a detection station
LightningMaps.org Alternatives
- Windy shows detailed weather forecasts on an animated map.
- Earth Nullschool animates global wind and ocean conditions on a globe.
- Live Earthquake Map plots recent earthquakes on a world map.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is LightningMaps.org free?
Yes. It is a free community project with no paid plan.
Where does the data come from?
From Blitzortung.org, a volunteer network of lightning detection stations.
Can I rely on it for safety?
No. The site says the data is for entertainment only. Use official weather services for warnings.
Does it cover the whole world?
It has views for Europe, the Americas and Oceania, and coverage depends on where volunteer stations are.