Carbondale launches automated lightning alert system at city facilities

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

CARBONDALE, Ill. — Carbondale has installed an automated lightning detection system to warn visitors about hazardous weather at several city facilities and event locations.

The Perry Weather system uses atmospheric data to detect lightning and issue real-time alerts.

Notification equipment has been installed at the Superblock, Evergreen Park and New Era Events Plaza, home of the Robbie Stokes Memorial Stage. Those locations feature:

Audible warning sirens
Public address announcements
Visual warning lights
Signs with QR codes linking to current conditions, safety guidance and all-clear countdowns

The city is also monitoring locations without permanent notification equipment, known as “soft sites.” Poplar Camp Beach currently has signage allowing visitors to scan a QR code for weather conditions, lightning information and safety recommendations.

At locations without sirens or warning lights, city employees who are present will notify visitors when hazardous conditions develop. Additional monitored locations may be added as the project expands.

The system monitors lightning within 10 miles of most locations and within 15 miles of Poplar Camp Beach.

Visitors should immediately seek appropriate shelter when an alert is issued and wait for the all-clear before returning outdoors.

More information is available at explorecarbondale.com.