[Elecraft] The strike(s) that killed the K4WTF hamshack...

[k4wtf@enterzone.net]

On Wed, 21 May 2003, Larry Cahoon wrote:

> John,
> 
> Is this kind of data available to the general public on a regular 
> basis?  It sure would be interesting to plot the points after a 
> storm.  I've been looking for a site that gives some kind of current info 
> on nearby strikes.  So far all I have found is one that give me the entire US.
> 
> Tnx and 73 de Larry..........WD3P
> http://www.wd3p.net/
> 


Larry, the site I obtained the initial report from is
http://www.lightningstorm.com/

The report I ordered cost me $120.00.  The image I listed I did myself (or
the URL at least) via VICINITY.COM because I understand how they want the
URL generated to plot multiple locations.

lightningstorm.com is a valuable resource though and their prices seem
reasonable if you need the information.  The NLDN *raw* information should
be available for free or a very small fee.  You would then need to write
some software to sort through the thousands of strikes they record daily
and present you with information based on your search criteria.

I felt that the $120.00 was well spent considering the fact that it will
come in very handy if the insurance company decides to balk at any of my
damages.  Given the accuracy of the NLDN information (500meters) and the
strikes they recorded, it is completely plausable that I had two DIRECT
strikes within 12.5 mins of each other at my station.

I did find some very interesting information last evening on grounding
techniques that will allow constant connection of antennas, computers,
etc.  I am at the office right now though and I don't have the hyperlink
in front of me.

I believe it was N3RR's site though.  He is a contester and designed his
station and ground system to be able to operate in the face of lightning.

73, John - K4WTF