Lightning Distance Calculator

This calculator determines the distance to a lightning strike based on the time delay between seeing the lightning and hearing the thunder.

Input Parameters

Calculation Results

Calculation Formula

Distance (km) = Time Delay (seconds) × 0.343

Where:
Time Delay is the time between seeing the lightning and hearing the thunder.
0.343 km/second is the speed of sound in air at sea level.

Lightning Distance Calculator Usage Guide

Learn how to use the Lightning Distance Calculator and its working principles

How to Use the Calculator

  1. Observe a lightning strike and start counting the seconds until you hear the thunder.
  2. Enter the time delay (in seconds) into the "Time Delay" field.
  3. Click the "Calculate" button to determine the distance to the lightning strike.
  4. The distance will be displayed in kilometers.

Working Principle

The speed of light is so fast that it reaches us almost instantaneously, while the speed of sound is much slower (approximately 343 meters per second or 0.343 kilometers per second at sea level). By measuring the time delay between seeing the lightning and hearing the thunder, we can calculate the distance to the lightning strike using the formula:

Distance (km) = Time Delay (seconds) × 0.343

Important Safety Notes

If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning. It is important to seek shelter immediately if you detect any signs of an approaching storm.