Manatee County implements lightning detection system at its beaches.

Key Information:

• Location: Manatee County, Florida
• New Installations: Lightning detection systems at public pools, splash pads, and beaches
• Main Focus: Enhancing safety for beachgoers during thunderstorms
• Functionality: Alerts for potential lightning with a loud horn and lights
• Operational Time: Varies by season

MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — This summer, officials in Manatee County implemented a state-of-the-art lightning detection system at public pools and splash pads. In a recent development, the first system has been installed at a local beach to further bolster safety measures.

The primary mission of the Manatee County Beach Patrol is to ensure safety for visitors, both in and out of the water. Chet Brown, the Division Chief for the Beach Patrol and Aquatic Safety, elaborated on the system’s components, stating, “So the two pieces that you see here—the one on the right-hand side is the horn, the actual horn, and a flashing light that emits a loud signal.”

One of these systems has been positioned at Manatee Public Beach, with another slated for installation on the roof of the Beach Patrol station located across from Coquina Beach.

Brown explained how the system operates: “The system is designed to read the atmosphere between the clouds and the ground during a thunderstorm. It’ll predict with a specific radius and set off one long, loud sound. This provides us a 15 to 20-minute advance notice of potential lightning in the area, allowing us ample time to clear the beach.”

Upon detecting a possible lightning threat, the system will emit a 15-second alarm to alert beachgoers to exit the water and seek safety in their vehicles.

Once the danger has passed, it will signal three short, loud beeps, indicating that it’s safe to return to the beach. Brown emphasized the importance of this proactive measure: “Florida’s the lightning capital of the world. With lightning strikes being more frequent, we’re committed to staying ahead of the curve.”

Visitors to the beach have already started to express a sense of increased safety due to this innovative technology. Ben Timenez shared his thoughts, saying, “Sounds good—whatever they can do to keep people safe.”

Although the project is in its early implementation phase, Brown remains optimistic about its effectiveness. “Here at the beach, it’s only been about a week since we’ve had one active. I hope the public takes notice and responds appropriately. Our staff is dedicated to ensuring everyone makes it to their cars safely. If no one’s being struck by lightning, I’d say it’s working,” he remarked.

This new system serves as a vital tool to allow people to enjoy water activities safely. Additionally, beach lifeguards will be involved in facilitating safety during thunderstorms, providing support and guidance as needed.

County officials noted that the activation times for the lightning detection system will depend on seasonal weather patterns.