The world's most accurate real-time lightning detection network, pinpointing in-cloud and cloud-to-ground lightning anywhere on Earth with unmatched precision and reliability.
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of thunderstorms detected
lightning events detected annually
median accuracy with precision network
network uptime
Lightning threatens safety, damages infrastructure, and disrupts operations across every industry. Detecting it accurately, in real time, anywhere on Earth, requires a network built on decades of atmospheric science and purpose-designed sensor technology.
The Xweather Lightning Network is that infrastructure. Powered exclusively by sensors designed and manufactured by Vaisala, it combines the National Lightning Detection Network (NLDN), the GLD360 global long-range network, and private member networks into a single source of standardized global lightning intelligence.
The result is unmatched detection capability: 99.9% of thunderstorms captured worldwide, median location accuracy of 84 meters across the contiguous United States, and over 2 billion lightning events recorded every year. NASA, the U.S. Armed Forces, the National Weather Service, and the Federal Aviation Administration rely on this data. So do 40% of Fortune 100 companies.
Organizations needing real-time alerts, historical analysis, or raw detection data for integration all draw from this single, continuously validated network.
Vaisala-manufactured sensors across the NLDN, GLD360, and member networks capture electromagnetic signals from lightning.
Patented time-of-arrival and magnetic direction-finding technology pinpoints each event with fewer sensors.
The network distinguishes cloud-to-ground strokes from in-cloud pulses with 85–95% accuracy.
Strike damage potential, error ellipses, and peak current data enable forensic-grade event assessment.
Lightning intelligence reaches your application, alert system, or dashboard within seconds of the flash, with 99.99% network uptime ensuring continuous availability.
NASA relies on precise lightning detection to protect high-value assets, and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) uses lightning data to manage airspace safety and minimize disruption from weather.
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National Weather Service (NWS) depends on accurate, real-time lightning data to enhance forecasts, issue warnings, and improve severe weather monitoring for public safety.
U.S. Armed Forces use reliable lightning intelligence to safeguard personnel and maintain operational readiness.
Powered exclusively by sensors designed and manufactured by Vaisala, the Xweather Lightning Network combines Vaisala's proprietary lightning detection networks with private member networks to deliver complete global coverage from a single source.
The National Lightning Detection Network covers the contiguous United States with 84-meter median location accuracy. Over 40 years of continuous operation make it the longest-running and most validated lightning detection network in the world.
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The GLD360 long-range network extends detection globally, over land and sea. It captures cloud-to-ground lightning worldwide with consistent quality, supporting international operations, aviation, and maritime applications.
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Private lightning detection networks built with Vaisala sensors contribute local data and receive improved performance, extended range, and enhanced cloud pulse detection. Member networks lower their operating costs while strengthening the combined network.
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Real-time lightning alerts, storm monitoring, and automated all-clear notifications for all your locations worldwide. Configurable thresholds, multi-channel delivery, and lightning forecasts up to 60 minutes ahead. No hardware to buy, install, or maintain.
Real-time and historical lightning data, threat zones, and strike analytics through a RESTful API. Developer SDKs for iOS, Android, and JavaScript, plus webhook delivery for event-driven applications. Includes data from 2016 to present.
Existing and new lightning detection networks built with Vaisala sensors can join the Xweather Lightning Network. Member networks contribute local data and receive improved performance, extended range, enhanced cloud pulse detection, and lower operating costs.
Member networks built with Vaisala sensors share local lightning data to strengthen the global network, while gaining improved performance, extended range, and enhanced accuracy in return.
Boost your network's performance by joining the Xweather Lightning Network. Contribute your local data and receive improved performance, extended coverage, and more accurate processing in return.
Start building your own precision lightning detection network with just two sensors instead of the four typically required. Joining the Xweather Lightning Network significantly lowers your setup and running costs.
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Your local cloud pulse detection efficiency improves by nearly 100% when your precision network joins the Xweather Lightning Network.
Joining the Xweather Lightning Network extends the range of your network by 1,000 km for enhanced storm monitoring and awareness.
You receive data in the same familiar format, while optional cloud-hosted data processing eliminates the need for a local server and software updates.
Discover compelling lightning data and unique industry insights in the 2025 Annual Lightning Report. The 2025 report explores lightning's impact on wind farms, the transmission grid, and major open-air stadiums in the United States.
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Existing lightning detection networks built with Vaisala sensors can apply for membership. Contact our team to discuss how joining the Xweather Lightning Network can extend your coverage and reduce operating costs.
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The network provides global coverage. The NLDN covers the contiguous United States with 84-meter median accuracy. GLD360 extends detection worldwide, over land and sea. Member networks contribute additional local coverage in specific regions.
Discuss real-time detection, historical analysis, API integration, or network membership with the team behind the world's most accurate lightning detection network.
