Lightning Detectors Detectors are now used at sporting events, golf courses, etc. as well as industries that have employees or clients exposed to the threat of lightning. Although an ordinary AM radio can be used to indicate the presence of lightning by producing static, indicators specifically designed for lightning detection are more useful. Indicator lights and beepers can warn people out in the open of imminent storms. The detector can flash more rapidly or beep louder as the storm nears. Some can indicate lightning strikes as much as 300 miles away, although false triggering can be a problem.
Sensitivity is usually adjustable.
The detector is often directional and can be rotated to locate the strongest direction. Detectors range from simple circuitry to more sophisticated detectors like the Skyscan shown at the left. These features include reduced false triggering. Lightning Research Florida's natural resource of lightning makes it an ideal place for study. At Camp Blanding, about 50 miles north of Tampa, lightning studies are very active.