Margie Wilhelmi
Director of Marketing, Wheaton Park District
630-510-4984 | [email protected]
Wheaton Park District Launches New Weather Monitoring and Lightning Detection System
WHEATON, IL, June 2, 2026 – The Wheaton Park District is expanding its commitment to community safety with the launch of new weather monitoring and lightning detection systems at several outdoor facilities and parks beginning this summer.
To help improve communication and response during changing weather conditions, the District has integrated Perry Weather, a real-time lightning detection and weather monitoring service that supports proactive decision-making for the safety of guests and staff.
The Perry Weather warning systems will operate daily from 7 a.m.–10 p.m., March 1 through November 30, at Arrowhead Golf Club, Atten Park, Central Athletic Complex, Graf Park, Memorial Park, Northside Park, Rice Pool & Water Park (Ray Morrill Community Center), and Seven Gables Park. The fully wireless, cloud-based system continuously monitors weather conditions through one of the nation’s most reliable lightning detection networks, helping staff respond quickly to changing conditions, clear outdoor areas when necessary, and pause activities during potentially dangerous weather.
When potentially dangerous weather enters the area, visitors will hear one long 15-second horn blast accompanied by flashing strobe lights, signaling that all outdoor activities should stop immediately and guests should seek shelter in a vehicle or nearby building. A 30-minute countdown will automatically begin following the most recent lightning event, and guests should remain sheltered until the all clear is issued.
When conditions are safe to resume outdoor activities, visitors will hear three short horn blasts spaced two seconds apart, and the strobe lights will deactivate. At that time, guests may return to the park and continue activities.
Live weather conditions, countdown timers, and site-specific updates will be available on its website at wheatonparkdistrict.com/weather.
This proactive investment reflects the Wheaton Park District’s continued commitment to improving safety, communication, and the overall visitor experience throughout its parks and facilities.
For more information about the Wheaton Park District, visit wheatonparkdistrict.com.
Pictured: Park District Staff work on installing new Perry Weather system.