The East Coast Lightning Detection Network

A magnetic direction-finding network for the detection of lightning cloud-to-ground strikes has been installed along the East Coast of the United States. Most of the lightning occurring from Maine to Florida and as far west as Ohio is detected. Time, location, flash polarity, stroke count, and peak signal amplitude are recorded in real time. Flash locations, time, and polarity are displayed routinely for research and operational purposes. The data are being compiled in a data base to provide statistical information necessary for the prediction of the surge performance of electric power lines and the improvement of surge protection practices.