Support

Last updated October 15, 2026

Lightning Tracker is published and operated by VectorApps, as identified on its App Store product page.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the weather data come from, and why can it be delayed?

Lightning observations come from Xweather, storm forecasts from Tomorrow.io, and radar from Rainbow.ai. Temperatures may come from Tomorrow.io or Apple Weather. Detection, provider processing, network conditions, and refresh scheduling all take time. Check the observation age and any missing-data or delayed-data message in the app.

Why does the app ask for my location?

Location lets the app measure strike distances and evaluate alerts around your current position. The app requests While Using access. You can use saved places without granting device location access. Weather queries also use location information; see the Privacy Policy for the details.

Why is the map empty when I can hear thunder?

Detection-network coverage is uneven. Strikes may be missing because of provider delay, limited coverage, connectivity, or the selected area and time window. An empty map is not evidence that lightning is absent. Follow official warnings and seek shelter when you hear thunder.

Why am I not receiving notifications?

Check that Lightning Tracker can send notifications in iOS Settings, that alerts are enabled for the relevant place, and that alerts are not snoozed or muted by quiet hours. Review Focus and Time Sensitive notification settings: some storm alerts use Time Sensitive delivery, but your system settings still control interruptions. Also check connectivity and the app's monitoring status. An alert needs a qualifying observed strike; missing notifications do not establish that conditions have improved.

Does monitoring continue in the background?

iOS decides when background refresh runs. It is intermittent, and the app cannot continuously monitor in the background. Disabled Background App Refresh, Low Power Mode, or app suspension can prevent checks. Reopen the app to review its latest data and monitoring status; current-location checks may be limited by an old location fix.

Can I monitor a saved place without location permission?

Yes. Add a place manually and review its alert settings. Weather queries use that place's coordinates. Location permission is needed for the current-location feature, not for a manually saved place.

How do I remove my data?

Clear Data removes saved locations and the alert log and resets settings and return-wait state. Some technical records and caches are separate from that reset. Deleting the app removes local app-container data, but does not erase existing backups or server verification records. Read the Privacy Policy or contact support about a privacy request.

Does the return-wait timer tell me when to resume outdoor activity?

No. The timer reflects the app's observed strikes and settings, which depend on data coverage and availability. Its completion does not establish that a storm has ended. Follow official weather warnings and your local procedures.