Spring 26 OP Newsletter

WEATHER SAFETY

The Village of Orland Park utilizes a network of lightning detection monitors to enhance safety at parks, athletic facilities and outdoor recreation areas. These systems provide real-time alerts when lightning is detected nearby, allowing for timely evacuation and reduced risk. System Locations The Village currently operates five lightning detection monitors located at Cachey Park, Centennial Park Baseball Fields, Centennial Park Aquatic Center, John Humphrey Sports Complex and Schussler Park. How the System Works The Village uses the iStrike Lightning Detection System (pictured below), which relies on a network of ground based sensors to detect lightning in real time. These sensors identify electromagnetic signals produced by lightning strikes and the data is processed through specialized software to determine the strike location. Using triangulation, the system accurately tracks storm activity and automatically triggers alerts when lightning enters a defined safety radius. This combination of hardware and software allows for fast, reliable detection and notification of hazardous conditions. When Alerts Activate At parks and athletic facilities, including the John Humphrey Complex, Schussler Park, Cachey Park and Centennial Park Baseball Fields, the system activates when lightning is detected within a 10-mile radius. At that point, both the siren and red strobe are triggered and evacuation is required.

15 miles, a red strobe light activates as an early alert but evacuation is not yet required. If lightning moves within a 10-mile radius, the siren and strobe activate and evacuation becomes mandatory. What Happens During an Alert When the system is activated, a red strobe light begins flashing and a loud siren sounds. The siren is similar to a police-style siren and should not be confused with a tornado siren. Together, these signals provide a clear and immediate warning to everyone in the area. What You Should Do If the system activates while you are at a facility, stop all activities immediately and move to a safe enclosed structure or your vehicle. Remain sheltered until conditions are safe. The Village follows a standard safety protocol requiring individuals to stay sheltered until the “all-clear” siren sequence has been completed. As always, it is important to be aware of weather when attending outdoor events. Have multiple ways to receive weather warnings and have safety plans in place in case of a weather emergency.

At the Centennial Park Aquatic Center, the system provides an earlier warning. When lightning is detected within

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