The project describes itself as a lightning detection network that locates electromagnetic discharges in the atmosphere. It's based in Germany and relies on lightning sensors around the world. If you turn on the sound -- reminiscent of an old teletype machine -- you'll realize how often lightning is striking something somewhere on earth.

For more lightning tidbits and info, this is a very useful link from the National Weather Association.

It notes right off that lightning is the second-highest cause of weather-related deaths in the United States. It doesn't mention what's the No.1 cause, but the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration can tell you that: Heat is the leading killer.

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Real-Time Lightning Tracker Lets You Keep Up on Strikes Everywhere