Instrumentation for lightning warning in blasting operations

The author gives an overview of the instrumentation used to provide warning of impending lightning. He gives a general description of all the methods and instrumentation available. The methods and instruments discussed include spheric detectors, interferometers, network systems, and atmospheric electrostatic field measurement devices. The first three methods and instruments are used to track active thunderstorms and usually provide ample warning time. The last is used to detect electrically active cells building overhead. It is the only verified way to accomplish pre-first-strike warning but does not allow much warning time, since the range of these devices is typically 5 mi or less.<>