Vaisala Network Detects One Billionth Lightning Stroke, Marks Major Milestone
Vaisala's Global Lightning Data GLD360, the largest single source of real-time lightning information around the globe, has recorded its one billionth lightning stroke. The GLD360 network provides more lightning information than any other comparable dataset in the world, with daily counts routinely exceeding 1.5 million events. The network has detected 33,258,377 strokes per month on average, since its inception in 2009.
The Vaisala GLD360 network's global reach, its industry leading Location Accuracy (LA) and Detection Efficiency (DE) performance combined with its unique Polarity & Peak Amplitude (kA) measurement capability provide more accurate short- and medium-term weather forecasts. The network can detect and characterize lightning in areas where meteorological observations may be partially lacking or absent. It supports lightning as a radar proxy or radar complement in areas where weather radar information is limited or non-existent. The network provides operational situational awareness to numerous industries.
"Vaisala technology sets the standard for the lightning industry. We continue to revolutionize the science and innovation behind global lightning detection. GLD360 touches millions of people every day and facilitates their safety by providing a greater understanding of severe weather across the world. It assimilates lightning data into weather models that enhance the foresight of advancing weather systems, which help our customers make more informed decisions and increase safety and efficiency," states Richard Pyle, Director, New Weather Markets in Vaisala.
Vaisala owns and operates the GLD360, and delivers lightning information as a service, enabling its customers to access this data without any capital expenditure investments. With over 90 precision networks installed in 40 countries, including the US National Lightning Detection Network (NLDN), the company is a world leader in lightning detection.
Further Information
Steven Rowley, Product Manager, Thunderstorm Systems & Data
Tel: +1 303 402 4767 , steven.rowley@vaisala.com
About Vaisala
Vaisala is a global leader in environmental and industrial measurement. Building on 75 years of experience, Vaisala contributes to a better quality of life by providing a comprehensive range of innovative observation and measurement products and services for chosen weather-related and industrial markets. Headquartered in Finland, Vaisala employs approximately 1400 professionals worldwide and is listed on the NASDAQ OMX Helsinki stock exchange. www.vaisala.com
Background information:
Vaisala GLD360 benefits from recent scientific advances such as:
o Location Accuracy (LA): Industry leading cloud-to-ground lightning stroke location accuracy of better than 5 km
o Detection Efficiency (DE): 70% for cloud-to-ground flashes with near-uniform coverage around the globe
o Polarity & Peak Amplitude (kA): Unique to the GLD360 is the ability to provide polarity and peak amplitude (kA) from a global network.
