A real time Schumann frequency (approximately 6-10 Hz) band-based, lightning strike detector system is described, comprising: first and second sensor systems, each sensor system comprising: first and second magnetic field sensors, each sensor having a preferential directional sensitivity, wherein the sensors are arranged with their preferential directional sensitivity substantially orthogonal to each other; signal lines coupled to the sensors; an amplifier to coupled to the signal lines; an output of the amplifier coupled to a processor; and power source coupled to the amplifier and processor, wherein the first and second sensor systems are separated from each other by at least 400 miles, and wherein each sensor system upon detection of a Schumann frequency from a lightning strike provides a respective orientation angle, wherein an intersection of the angles of orientation following a great circle path indicates a location of the lightning strike.