If you have a strong fear of storm activity and an extra $599.99, you should check out the Thunderbolt Storm Detector from Edmond Scientific. The Thunderbolt works from any land-based location on earth, and uses “you as the center, and detects all activity based on your location.” It doesn’t rely on any data from any weather transmissions. It uses an LCD text display, red and green LEDs, and an alarm to warm you of a storm’s approach. It detects storms up to 75 miles away, calculates speed of approach, range of the storm, and strike probability. It claims accuracies within 5-10%. The Thunderbolt is powered by batteries or the included A/C adapter.
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Seems like an awful expensive lighting detector. What they seem to have above a normal lighting detector (they all have the various leds to indicate how far away the lighting strike is) is the extra software to calculate that the storm is moving your way and an eta. Most lighting detectors can be had for under 100 bucks… that is a lot extra for that little bit.
Lynn,
I just happened to get this feed and would like to comment.
ThunderBolt is so much more than a ” Lightning Detector”
A Lightning Detector works in the following way : 1 bit of data in / 1 bit of data out. ThunderBolt is more of a hand-held computer. It receives a constant stream of data from the storm and with its enhanced software can correctly tell it’s user the details of the approaching storm to the unit’s location. It communicates in plain English with well over 50 text screens. ETA is given in minutes, the speed of approaching storm is calculated, the severity of the storm is given ( whether it contains multiple cells or squall lines ), when the storm has reached the point when you can get struck by a lightning stroke ( Storm is Local ), and the time for the storm to safely clear your area. The unit also allows it’s user to set 3 manual alarms and receive a 4th alarm ( Storm is Local alarm at the 8 mile range) automatically. Enhanced Squall detection and filtering, an enhanced back lit screen, and the longest warranty of any hand-held unit allow ThunderBolt to be ” Best in-class”.
ThunderBolt does all of this in ” REAL-TIME” as it is happening at the users location.
Oh yes, and the unit will tell you about the strikes in your area.
When I display at trade shows I often set-up a computer running supposed “Live Radar”. I then ask participants to look at the ThunderBolt and then come back in 10-20 minutes so the ” Live Radar” can catch-up to the unit.
The unit is used in a host of industries where accuracy is key.
Schools/Universities/Youth Sports/The US Military / Petroleum/ Chemical/Mining/ Construction ( all types ) / Amusement parks / Zoos / and so many more. Many ThunderBolt users are just like you.
Probably less informative but any AM radio detects lightning at great distances. Especially when you’re really trying to hear what’s being broadcast. Sounds a bit like cardboard ripping.
I want the new Motorola Droid with the weather app that puts you on a Google Map with high-res radar with data on it. More useful than these lightning detectors.
This device is way overpriced!! Highly recommended to buy other cheaper detectors under $100!! Also, its a good idea to just check with your radio, many people should read this in order to save their money!!!!!
This is a normal price for such a device.
I am from Moscow, Russia, and recently ordered this device from Florida, USA. I will review it after April 15, when the first spring thunderstorms will begin.