Whether you're a keen gardener, allotment holder, or outdoor enthusiast, knowing when a storm is approaching can make all the difference. The Ecowitt WH57 Lightning Detection Sensor — paired with an Ecowitt WiFi Gateway or selected Ecowitt Weather Stations — gives you real-time lightning alerts and data, right from your garden.
What Is the Ecowitt WH57 Lightning Sensor?
The WH57 is a dedicated lightning detection sensor that can detect electrical storm activity from up to 25 miles (40 km) away. It continuously monitors for lightning strikes and reports data every 79 seconds, giving you an early warning before a storm reaches you.
Key features include:
- ⚡ 25-mile (40 km) detection range — spot storms well before they arrive
- 🔧 Adjustable sensitivity — choose high or low sensitivity to suit your environment
- 🔋 Battery powered — 2x AA 1.5V alkaline batteries for easy installation anywhere
- 🏠 Protective shelter included — keeps the sensor safe from rain and the elements
- 📡 868MHz frequency — UK and EU approved, with up to 100m wireless range in open areas
Pair It With an Ecowitt WiFi Gateway
The WH57 works seamlessly with Ecowitt's range of WiFi gateways to bring your lightning data online. We offer two great options:
Ecowitt GW1200 WiFi Gateway
The GW1200 is the ideal entry-level gateway for building a modular weather station. It features:
- Built-in temperature, humidity, and barometric pressure sensors (on a wired probe to avoid heat interference)
- WiFi connectivity (802.11 b/g/n 2.4 GHz)
- IoT device control — compatible with Ecowitt smart plugs and water timers
- Data sharing to Ecowitt.net, Weather Underground, WeatherCloud, Home Assistant, and more
- USB powered — simple plug-in setup
- 2-year warranty
Ecowitt GW3000 WiFi Gateway
Step up to the GW3000 for additional capabilities:
- Everything in the GW1200, plus...
- Wired LAN port for a more stable connection
- MicroSD card slot for local data logging — no internet required
- External antenna for improved sensor reception
Add It to an Ecowitt Weather Station
Already have an Ecowitt weather station? The WH57 can be added directly to a range of compatible Ecowitt consoles and stations, extending your setup with dedicated lightning detection. Compatible stations include those with the HP2551, HP3500, and HP3501 consoles.
When paired with a compatible weather station console, you get:
- ⚡ Real-time lightning data on the display — view strike distance and count directly on your station screen
- 🔔 Visual lightning alerts — a flashing lightning icon on the console alerts you to nearby strikes
- 📊 Integrated data logging — lightning data sits alongside your wind, rain, temperature, and humidity readings in one place
- 🌐 Cloud upload — data is still pushed to Ecowitt.net for remote monitoring and email alerts
Not sure if your station is compatible? Check the Ecowitt sensor matrix for a full list of supported consoles and stations, or get in touch and we'll help you find the right fit.
What Data Will You See?
Whether you set up your Lightning Sensor with a Gateway or weather station, your lightning data is uploaded to the Ecowitt weather network, where you can view:
- Strike count — how many lightning strikes have been detected
- Distance — how far away the last strike was
- Time — when the last strike was recorded
- Historical graphs and records
You can also set up email alerts so you're notified the moment lightning is detected nearby — ideal if you're away from home or working outdoors.
The Perfect Starter Bundle
Not sure where to begin? Our Ecowitt Gateway with WH57 Lightning Sensor bundle is the easiest way to get started. Available from £105.00, it includes the WH57 sensor with shelter and your choice of GW1200 or GW3000 gateway — everything you need out of the box.
Expandable and Modular
One of the best things about the Ecowitt ecosystem is its flexibility. Start with the WH57 lightning sensor and gateway, then expand your setup over time with additional sensors — wind, rain, soil moisture, temperature probes, and more. All data is viewable in the Ecowitt App, on Ecowitt.net, and through popular third-party platforms.
Ready to Stay One Step Ahead of the Storm?
Browse our full range of Ecowitt lightning detection products below and find the right setup for your garden or allotment.
