Lightning

The ATDnet Lightning Detection System is optimised for detecting cloud-to-ground lightning strokes and flashes rather than cloud lightning (inter-cloud and intra-cloud lightning). The majority of lightning occurs in the storm cloud itself or between clouds. On average approximately 10 to 20 percent of all lightning over Ireland are cloud-to-ground strikes.

Lightning locations are sourced from the WMO SFERIC (SFUK) messages. Some atmospherics may not be detected. Isolated spurious returns can also occur. Detection efficiency is variable, ATDnet is capable of detecting in excess of 90% of cloud-to-ground lightning flashes over Ireland. Typical location accuracy is estimated to be around 1–3km, or less.  Further information about lightning detection at Valentia Observatory is available here.

We are most grateful to the UK Met Office for the use of their Arrival Time Difference (ATD) lightning location data.

Lightning strikes, when they occur, are displayed as a cross. Initially they are red but change to orange and then yellow after a period, then disappear.

A worldwide lightning detection map is available at Blitzortung.org – worldwide, real time, community collaborative lightning location network. © 2003-2020 Blitzortung.org Contributors

Daily lightning data is available to download at the link below, please note it contains public sector information licensed under the UK Open Government Licence v3.0.
Archive Lightning maps with strikes displayed in an hourly colour code are available here.