Immediate Actions Based on Conditions

• Normal – Normal Operations

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When: No lightning strikes detected within 25 miles in the last 15 minutes and no strikes within 10 miles in the last 30 minutes.

 

Action: Continue or return to routine operations if onsite conditions are safe. Use your own judgment and assess local conditions before resuming outdoor work.

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• Level 1 – Prepare for Shelter

 

When: Lightning strikes detected 10–25 miles away in the last 15 minutes, with no strikes within 10 miles in the last 30 minutes.

Action: Prepare to shelter and cease high-risk activities (e.g., working on tall structures, using cranes). Identify safe shelters (buildings or enclosed vehicles) and monitor conditions closely.

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• Level 2 – Seek Shelter Immediately

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When: Lightning strikes detected within 10 miles in the last 30 minutes.

Action: Immediately stop all outdoor activities and seek shelter in a substantial building or fully enclosed metal-topped vehicle. Remain sheltered until 30 minutes after the last strike within 10 miles (notified via email or SMS).

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Monitoring & Data Collection

• Lightning Strikes (15-Minute Window), Updated Every 5 Minutes:

 

The system monitors lightning strikes within a 25-mile radius over a 15-minute window for Level 1 and Normal conditions, and a 30-minute window for Level 2 conditions (strikes within 10 miles). Distance thresholds are 10 miles (Level 2) and 25 miles (Level 1) to determine risk levels.

Data Source

Near-real-time lightning strike data is provided by XWeather’s API.​

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Email and SMS Privacy, Opt-In, and Opt-Out Policy

​This policy is available here.