Thunder & Storm Detectors

Professional-grade thunder detectors and storm detectors trusted by airports, sports venues, offshore platforms and industrial sites worldwide. Detect all lightning activity up to 83 km away – before it becomes a danger.

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Key figures

• 83km detection range
• 25+ years in service
• 100% lightning types detected
• 24/7 continuous monitoring

Deployed across critical infrastructure including:

Commercial Airports · Offshore Platforms · Golf Courses · Stadiums & Events · Military Installations · Mining Operations

Thunder & Storm Detection Systems

Two storm detector families covering short-range venue protection through to wide-area storm warning – both built for continuous, unattended operation in harsh environments.

BTD-200 Thunder Detector – Short Range (35km)

A compact, omnidirectional thunder detector for venue and site protection. Designed for easy installation and integration with alarm systems, the BTD-200 provides reliable thunderstorm warning without requiring a line of sight to the storm.

• Omnidirectional 35km detection
• Detects cloud-to-ground and cloud-to-cloud lightning
• Alarm relay outputs for integration
• No moving parts – low maintenance
• Ideal for golf courses, sports grounds, events

BTD-300 Storm Detector — Long Range (83km)

Our flagship storm detector, providing long-range detection up to 83km. The BTD-300 uses advanced electric field mill technology to detect the atmospheric electrical charge that precedes a storm, giving earlier warnings than lightning-only sensors.

• 83km detection range
• Detects pre-storm atmospheric charge
• Directional bearing output
• Suitable for airports, offshore, industrial
• WMO & ICAO compliant data output

Warning Displays & Alarm Units

Complement your thunder or storm detector with purpose-built warning displays and alarm units. Provide clear, unmissable visual and audible alerts to staff and the public at the moment a storm is detected.

• Indoor and weatherproof outdoor units
• Audible alarm with adjustable thresholds
• LED warning light options
• Compatible with BTD-200 and BTD-300
• Network-connected versions available

How Storm Detection Works

From atmospheric charge to alarm, Senseca UK storm detectors continuously monitor the electromagnetic signatures of developing thunderstorms.

1 Charge Detection
The sensor continuously measures atmospheric electric field strength and electromagnetic pulses generated by lightning discharge activity.

2 Signal Processing
Onboard electronics filter out noise and classify signals to distinguish genuine storm activity from local interference.

3 Threat Assessment
The storm detector calculates storm intensity, distance, and in directional models, bearing — giving an accurate picture of the approaching storm.

4 Alarm Output
When thresholds are met, relay contacts trigger connected alarm systems, displays, or site management software — automatically, instantly.

Where Our Storm Detectors Are Deployed

From golf courses to oil rigs, wherever people or critical equipment need protection from lightning, our thunder and storm detectors are trusted to deliver reliable warnings.

Aviation & Airports

Airports rely on Senseca UK storm detectors to protect ground operations, refuelling crews, and ramp staff. Long-range detection allows safe completion or suspension of critical tasks before a storm arrives.

Golf Courses & Sports Venues

Golf courses, outdoor stadia, and leisure centres use the BTD-200 thunder detector to safeguard players, spectators and staff. Compliant with R&A and Sport England lightning guidance.

Construction & Industrial Sites

High-risk sites where crane operations, blasting, or exposed workers require advance warning. Our storm detectors integrate with site alarm systems to trigger safe work stops automatically.

Offshore & Oil & Gas

Offshore platforms, refineries, and petrochemical sites operate under strict lightning safety protocols. Our sensors provide the data needed to comply with IEC 62305 risk assessment requirements.

Utilities & Power Generation

Wind farms, solar installations and power substations use our storm detectors to protect both equipment and maintenance personnel during live weather events.

Mining Operations

Open-cast and surface mining sites have large exposed workforces and sensitive explosive materials. Early storm warning is an operational and safety-critical requirement.

Storm Detection & IEC 62305 Compliance

IEC 62305 is the international standard for protection against lightning. It requires organisations to carry out risk assessments and implement appropriate protective measures, which include warning systems to allow safe operation during storm events.

• Senseca UK storm detectors support IEC 62305-2 risk assessment by providing real-time storm proximity data for your site-specific calculations.
• The BTD-300 provides the storm frequency data (Ng values) that IEC 62305 requires for accurate lightning risk assessment.
• Automated alarm outputs support IEC 62305-compliant emergency procedures and safe-work protocols.
• Our systems are also compatible with BS EN 62305, the UK adoption of the international standard.

Relevant Standards

IEC 62305-1
General principles of lightning protection

IEC 62305-2
Risk management & assessment

IEC 62305-3
Physical damage to structures

IEC 62305-4
Electrical & electronic systems

BS EN 62305
UK national adoption

WMO No.8
Meteorological instrument guidance