1
When you see lightning
From a safe location, quickly point the top of your iPhone toward the flash and tap See Flash.
Support
Lightning Locator Support
Lightning Locator is designed to be simple: record the flash, record the thunder, and view an approximate strike estimate.
How to use Lightning Locator
2
When you hear thunder
Tap Hear Thunder. The app estimates distance from the flash-to-thunder time.
3
Review the result
The result combines the estimated distance with the phone heading captured at the flash to show an approximate map location.
Frequently asked questions
Why does Lightning Locator need my location?
Your location is used on the device as the starting point for calculating the estimated strike coordinate. Lightning Locator does not send your location to Envision Development LLC.
Why does it use the compass heading?
The heading records the direction you were pointing when you saw the flash. Together with the estimated distance, that direction is used to calculate an approximate strike position.
How accurate is the estimate?
It is intentionally a rough estimate. Human reaction time, phone heading accuracy, your exact viewing position, atmospheric conditions, and the geometry of the lightning can all affect the result.
Is this a lightning warning or safety app?
No. Do not use Lightning Locator to decide whether conditions are safe. Follow official weather warnings and established lightning-safety guidance.
Need help?
support@lightninglocator.app
Email Lightning Locator support.