Global Lightning Network

TOA Sensor Map

TOA operates a Global Lightning Detection Network utilizing over 500 state-of-the-science, patented sensors deployed around the world.

The Global Lightning Network network provides very high detection capability over most of North America, Europe, South America, Australia and Southeast Asia. Location accuracy of our detections is <100m over most of these areas and <500m over all of the areas.

Data is also available for oceanic and other continental regions — and our network continues to expand, with more sensors added every month.

Getting access to lightning detection data

TOA operates the lightning network and infrastructure; there is no hardware investment on your part. Lightning data is provided via an API or as part of applications provided by our strategic partners. For lightning applications such as safety, insurance, business operations and beyond, we have partnered with two leading weather companies to provide exclusive access to our data. The recently launched Tempest Lightning Network is a collaboration with WeatherFlow-Tempest and covers North America and Europe. In Australia, the South Pacific, and portions of SE Asia, we have partnered with MetraWeather.

Every second counts

Lightning data is processed without delay, with diverse format and delivery options facilitating integration into existing systems and applications. Time is of the essence, and real-time streaming data is available in <10 seconds from detection.

Lightning strike types matter

GLN sensors are designed to detect and differentiate between cloud-to-ground and in-cloud lightning events and determine many other parameters about each lightning strike (positive or negative charge, amplitude, etc.). Detecting both types of events provides a better overall picture of storm activity and allows improved analysis of storm development and decay.

24 x 7 x 365 are more than just numbers to us

Every minute of every day, you can count on TOA’s proven infrastructure and acclaimed customer support. We utilize three different AWS regions to host our central processing capabilities and delivery of data. We have not gone down in over 10 years! You can count on us for over five “9s” of uptime, 99.999%.

Flexible business approach

We are committed to serving our diverse customer base and re-seller channel, addressing specific requirements while maintaining the highest level of integrity and confidentiality. Lightning data is available with the coverage area, format, and licensing arrangements to suit your needs.