Lightning
SPC + NWS · Updated Every 30 minutes · Source: SPC + NWS
About Lightning
Lightning kills an average of 20 people per year in the United States and injures hundreds more, making it one of the most frequently encountered weather hazards. Florida is the lightning capital of the US, followed by the Gulf Coast states and the central plains. Lightning is associated with virtually all thunderstorms and can strike many miles from the storm center, even under clear skies.
Data Source
SPC convective outlooks are the official NOAA products for severe weather potential, issued multiple times daily beginning at 0100 UTC for the current convective day. The categorical and probabilistic outlooks are produced by SPC forecasters using numerical weather prediction models, soundings, and real-time observational data. NWS alert polygons are retrieved from api.weather.gov in real time.
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Provider | NOAA Storm Prediction Center and National Weather Service |
| Update Frequency | Every 30 minutes |
| Coverage | United States (all 50 states and territories) |
| API / Data Feed | www.spc.noaa.gov/products/outlook/ and api.weather.gov |
What the Map Shows
SPC Day 1 and Day 2 convective outlook polygons showing areas under Marginal, Slight, Enhanced, Moderate, and High risk for severe thunderstorm activity, which directly corresponds to elevated lightning risk. Active NWS severe thunderstorm warnings, severe thunderstorm watches, and special weather statements mentioning lightning are overlaid.
View live Lightning map →Explore Other Hazards
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