Czech Republic issues severe thunderstorm warning as LightningMaps app tracks real‑time strikes

The Czech Hydrometeorological Institute (ČHMÚ) issued a high‑level warning for intense thunderstorms moving from Saxony into the Czech Republic. The forecast calls for strong winds exceeding 70 km/h, large hail, and heavy rain that could trigger flash floods, particularly in northern Bohemia, the Central Bohemian region, Rakovník, Kladno, and northern Plzeň. Authorities warned of possible rapid runoff, flooding of basements and roads, and damage to infrastructure.

A free web application called LightningMaps displays individual lightning strikes worldwide within seconds of occurrence. Powered by the volunteer Blitzortung network of detection stations, the service visualises real‑time and historical lightning data without registration. Coverage includes Europe, North America, parts of Asia and Australia, and it can help users avoid areas of active thunderstorms.

The combination of the official weather warning and the LightningMaps tool provides the public with timely information to reduce risk from the approaching storms.