Where does the lightning data come from?

The NZ Government via MetService, Transpower and international data too.

How often does it update?

For LIGHTNING and PRO users it is real-time so only a few seconds after a lightning strike. The free version is updated every 15 minutes.

Why can’t we see precisely where the lightning is?

Not all strike placements are 100% accurate, so MetService places some limitations around this – but if you have feedback please provide feedback to lightning@weatherwatch.co.nz

Does this capture every single lightning strike?

Basically, but not all. Global providers often don’t have lightning trackers on the ground. MetService & Transpower have 10 ground trackers, which basically means our services are not only lightning fast, but also capturing almost every single local lightning strike in NZ, up to about 90 to 95% accuracy.

How do I track the movement of lightning outside of this map?

Use the rain radar to better visually see where the heaviest rain is – often in thunderstorms (but not always) the heaviest rain is under or close to the cluster of lightning strikes.

How do I get lightning alerts?

Sign up to LIGHTNING or PRO in our app. Both provide real time live ligthning alerts pushed to your phone. You set the distance you want to get alerts (ie, within 25km of my home!).

I have WeatherWatch Pro which allows me 10 saved locations. Does that mean I can get 10 locations for lightning alerts?

No, MetService places limitations on how many alerts a single user can have – the LIGHTNING tier allows 1 location, but the PRO tier allows for two locations anywhere in NZ to have push alerts for real time lightning.

I have suggestions about how this can be improved – or complaints I’d like to make

Send us your feedback to lightning@weatherwatch.co.nz. Please note, we won’t be replying to most comments but it’s a good chance for you to let us know what we could do better, or what you love/dislike the most.

I have technical issues and need help

Email us at technical@weatherwatch.co.nz.