Summer in the Southeast is the time and area of most lightning storms in the U.S., with storms starting in late spring and running through late summer. This region consistently receives the highest number of lightning strikes, with Florida catching the most due to its location between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. Other states along the Gulf, including Georgia, Mississippi and Louisiana, are included in the top five for receiving lightning strikes.

Lightning Strikes by the Number

Yearly averages for the top five states that receive the most strikes are:

• Florida: Receives 25 strikes per square mile, 1.5 million each year.

• Louisiana: Draws about 20 strikes per square mile, 940,000 annually.

• Mississippi: Attracts 18 strikes per square mile, 860,000 per year.

• Alabama: Garners 16 strikes per square mile, 824,000 yearly.

• South Carolina and Oklahoma: Receive 15 strikes per square mile, 450,000 each year.

Advance Warning Can Save Lives

Although the southeast draws substantially more lightning storms than other regions in the U.S., lightning can and does strike just about everywhere, killing several people each year. For first responders and emergency managers tasked with keeping communities safe, a lightning detection system is a critical part of any emergency plan, giving you advance information on storm systems and the ability to watch the risk in real-time.

Outdoor Venues at Risk

Whether you are responsible for a smaller community or an entire state, the sooner you know about a potential weather risk, the sooner you can alert area residents, including schools, churches and businesses, to take shelter. A lightning sensor system is especially useful for outdoor venues, parks and anywhere people gather for outdoor recreation or work, such as construction sites, golf courses and sports arenas.

For information on how a lightning detection system can benefit your community, contact Earth Networks by phone at 800-544-4429 or by visiting our website. Together, we can access your needs and find the right solution.