Three Cape Coral parks to receive new lightning detection systems

Cape Coral is installing lightning detection systems in three more parks to provide advanced warnings of nearby lightning strikes and improve safety during storms. "As someone who's had a friend struck by lightning, I would say yes. Anything that gives an advanced warning is probably a good idea," one resident said. The city announced that Tropicana Park will be the next location to receive the Earth Networks Lightning Alerting System, which detects lightning up to 10 miles away and alerts the public using horns and strobe lights. Yellow Fever Creek Preserve and Festival Park, where a ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for Aug. 14, will also have the systems installed. These additions will join the 18 parks already equipped with the technology out of Cape Coral’s 44 parks. Gulf Coast Meteorologist Rob Duns explained how the system works. "With these lightning detection networks, you have a series of antennas that are placed all over the place. So if we were to use this kind of as an example, if we had three of these antennas just always listening to radio waves that are sparked by lightning, when a lightning strike actually hits the earth, if you have at least three of these antennas around, they can essentially triangulate about where these lightning bolts hit the Earth," Duns said. City officials said the systems have been ordered and are awaiting delivery. Once installed, the technology will help neighbors and outdoor workers stay prepared during storms. "It's a good improvement! So, you know, it draws families in, it draws children in, you know," one resident said. DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment and original programming on your TV.