The WH31L Lightning Detector: Perfect for Tracking End of Summer Storms

August 31, 2022 Jackie Heikel Comments

Summer is coming to an end, but that doesn't mean the storms are over! In fact, September and October are typically the months with the most severe thunderstorms. If you're looking for a way to track these storms, look no further than the WH31L Lightning Detector from Ambient Weather.

Note: The WH31L is not a stand-alone sensor and must be used with a WS-2000 Weather Station or WS-5000 Weather Station.

Why are Lightning Detectors Important?

Lightning detectors can give you advance warning of an approaching storm. This is especially valuable if you're outdoors and might be caught in the storm's path. Athletics, outdoor venues, and public pools are just a few examples of places where lightning detectors can keep lives safe. Home lightning detection is equally important. Whether you have a pool or like to spend time outdoors, lightning detectors can help you track approaching storms that are too far away to see or hear.

How Does it Detect Lightning?

Personal lightning detectors operate by detecting the electromagnetic pulse (EMP) emitted by a lightning strike. By measuring the strength of the detected EMP, the device can then estimate the distance from the detected strike. Using EMP detection, the WH31L Lightning Detector identifies storm activity within a 25-mile range(40 km) of your location.

It is important to note that personal lightning detectors cannot measure the exact location of a lightning strike. For example, they cannot tell where a lightning strike was located or from which direction the lightning is approaching, only that lightning is in the area.

Also, since a personal lightning detector is triggered by EMPs, interference from other EMP-emitting devices (such as electronic equipment, appliances, fluorescent lights, and even car engines) can sometimes result in either false alarms or missed strikes. This interference often has the additional effect of preventing personal lightning detectors from functioning properly while indoors or near outdoor electronic equipment.

The Benefits of Owning a WH31L Lightning Detector

This sensor is designed to measure lightning strikes within a 25-mile radius, making it perfect for tracking storms as they move through your area. The WH31L Lightning Detector transmits your data every 79 seconds to your weather station display console and the Ambient Weather Network cloud service. The Ambient Weather Network is our free platform where users can manage all their sensor data and view live radar to track storms. By following frequent updates from your sensor, you will be able to stay ahead of storms and prepare for them accordingly.

Where Should I Mount My WH31L Lightning Detector?

The WH31L Lightning Detector is water resistant but needs to be protected from prolonged exposure to outdoor conditions. It is recommended that you mount the sensor in a covered outdoor area, such as a patio or porch. However, if you want to mount your sensor outside, it is highly recommended that this device be mounted in an enclosure, such as the Ambient Weather WH31SRS Solar Radiation Shield, to protect it from the elements.

Order your own WH31L Lightning Detector today.

About author

Jackie Heikel