Is this lightning map completely free to use?

Yes! This lightning map is 100% free to use. It's powered by data from Blitzortung.org, a community-driven lightning detection network. No registration, subscription, or payment required.

How accurate is the real-time lightning data?

The lightning data comes from Blitzortung.org's global network of volunteer-operated detection stations. While highly accurate in well-covered areas like Europe and North America, coverage may vary in remote regions. Data is typically updated within seconds of actual strikes.

What do the different colors on the map mean?

Lightning strikes are color-coded by age. White and yellow indicate the most recent strikes (within the last few minutes), while orange, red, and dark red represent progressively older strikes up to 20 minutes in the past.

Can I use this map to protect my property from lightning?

This map is for entertainment and educational purposes only. It should NOT be used as a safety tool to protect people, property, or equipment. Always rely on official weather services and lightning safety guidelines for protection decisions.

Will my display settings be saved for next time?

Yes! Your preferences including selected region, display settings, and sound options are automatically saved in your browser's local storage. They'll be restored the next time you visit.

Lightning Strike Map - Real-Time Global Lightning Tracker

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About This Map

What You're Seeing

This map displays real-time lightning strikes detected by the Blitzortung.org network—a community of volunteers operating lightning detection stations worldwide. Watch as strikes appear in real-time, with colors indicating how recently each strike occurred.

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How to Use

Select a region to zoom into that area. Toggle display options to show/hide detector stations, day/night shading, time zones, and strike circles. Enable sound to hear thunder effects with each strike. All your preferences are automatically saved for your next visit.

Detector Network

Blitzortung operates with over 2,000 detection stations in 80+ countries. Coverage is strongest in Europe and North America. Each detection requires multiple stations to triangulate a strike's location, ensuring accurate positioning.

Units & Measurements

Distances are shown in kilometers (km) by default. Lightning strikes are timestamped in UTC. For local times, enable the Time Zones overlay. Strike circles show the uncertainty radius of each detection in kilometers.