Creator: Blitzortung.org | visit site
Grade Range: 3 - 11
Find the location of current lightning strikes in the World (U.S., Europe, and Oceania) in real time. Click the various areas to jump to that portion of the map, or grab the map to move to the desired location. This resource uses Google Maps and portrays the lightning strikes as flashing dots. Choose the delay in the upper left-hand corner from strikes within the last hour to those in the last minute. The sound is set to create a "tick" sound for every strike. Change the volume in the tools in the upper right. Other tools include Fullscreen, Thunder sound, Clouds, and Rain Radar. Turn on the location of the various reporting stations. Those familiar with Google Maps will see the option of switching from Map to Satellite view.
In the Classroom
When discussing the weather, use this resource for locating the current position of lightning strikes. Use this resource as an introduction to weather. Student groups can brainstorm what they observe, on the maps, to determine why thunderstorms form. Research various types of clouds and storm systems and how they form. Create a challenge in your class and view various weather maps to determine where students predict the next lightning strikes will form.
At Home
Storms do get all the attention! If your son or daughter is fascinated with weather events, he/she will find this simple map interesting.