AccuWeather acquires TOA Systems' lightning detection tech

AccuWeather has announced the acquisition of TOA Systems' lightning network and technology, a move aimed at enhancing global lightning detection capabilities.

The acquisition will integrate TOA Systems' lightning detection systems with AccuWeather's forecasting technology and machine learning capabilities to form a global lightning detection network. This network aims to deliver comprehensive insights to businesses, governments, and the public, enhancing their ability to manage risks associated with lightning.

Steven R. Smith, CEO of AccuWeather, stated: "The integration of AccuWeather's expertise in machine learning and weather forecasting with TOA's advanced hardware will dramatically enhance decision-making processes for industries and individuals at risk from lightning strikes." Smith expressed the importance of the acquisition in advancing lightning forecast expertise and providing clients and users with a life-saving dataset.

AccuWeather highlighted that lightning is a significant hazard, with around 200 million lightning strikes occurring annually in the United States and over 2 billion globally. The company noted that the average lightning strike can cause substantial harm, including fatalities and injuries. The acquisition is expected to improve real-time lightning detection services, thereby increasing safety and preparedness.

Chris Patti, Chief Data and Science Officer at AccuWeather, commented: "TOA Systems has been at the forefront of lightning detection technology, providing reliable and precise data to various sectors, including aviation, energy, and outdoor event management." Patti added that the new network would enhance predictive insights and lightning risk assessments worldwide.

Tim Bent, formerly of TOA Systems, remarked on the significance of the integration, saying: "This is a significant advancement in the field of meteorology and lightning detection. Our integration with AccuWeather will expand the reach and accuracy of our lightning detection network, providing critical, life-saving information to a global audience."

Economic losses owing to lightning are considerable, with an estimated USD $1 billion impact annually in the U.S., arising from property damage, fire spreads, and infrastructure disruptions. Lightning-related incidents also substantially affect the agricultural sector through wildfires and damage to crops and livestock.

AccuWeather emphasised that the new detection network will be made available across its digital platforms, providing users with real-time lightning alerts, risk analysis, and safety recommendations. This information will also be accessible via AccuWeather's APIs and Data Marketplaces, making it a valuable resource for enterprise clients.

AccuWeather, recognised and documented as an accurate and well-used source of weather forecasts and warnings in the world, has saved more than 12,000 lives, prevented injury to over 100,000 people, and saved companies tens of billions of dollars through better planning and decision-making. AccuWeather.com is the number one weather destination and one of the top 100 most-visited websites in the world, and our award-winning AccuWeather app delivers detailed real-time forecasts to millions of smartphones.

AccuWeather forecasts also appear on digital signage, in 700 newspapers, are heard on over 400 radio stations, and viewed on 100 television stations. The AccuWeather Network and AccuWeather NOW reach an audience of over 125 million on cable and streaming platforms including DirecTV, Charter Communications - Spectrum, Verizon, Philo, Frndly TV, Comcast's Xfinity X1 and Xfinity Stream, Roku, Xumo, Rockbot, LG, and Amazon Freevee.