| Price | Free |
| Version | 5.40.0-19 |
| Category | Weather |
| Developer | WeatherBug |
| Source | iOS, Android |
| Rating | (4.2) |
Founded in 1993 as part of the Automated Weather Source, WeatherBug began life as a website, tracking weather data from connected weather stations.
After partnering with television stations to use WeatherBug data during news broadcasts, WeatherBug launched as a desktop application in 2000, before the phone app was offered in 2007.
The WeatherBug app essentially delivers everything you expect from a weather broadcast, straight to your phone, with your chosen personalizations. You can access the immediate forecast in detail, or plan up to 10 days ahead.
Drawing information from the company’s large number of weather stations, the WeatherBug app provides detailed forecasts for your local area.
It can also warn you of storms, prepare you for a high pollen count, and see where the nearest lightning strikes are. With plenty of personalizations, you can make this app work for you.
WeatherBug is free to download on both iOS and Android devices. WeatherBug can also be downloaded on Apple Watches, although with limited capabilities.
With the app installed, you can browse through, save your preferences, and explore the forthcoming forecast.
The only in-app purchase offered is an opportunity to remove ads, so you have access to everything WeatherBug provides with the free download.
WeatherBug was initially established as a website, and even with the app, it still runs a comprehensive online database. The app is fairly large, so if you don’t have space on your phone, the website is a decent alternative.
However, it’s better to sign in to an account, so you can quickly access personalized information which is relevant to your interests.
WeatherBug is a 4+ app, but it really is aimed at adults who need to know the weather to make plans. The app is easy enough to navigate, but the sheer amount of detail can get a little overwhelming.
If you want a quick and easy way to check if it’s likely to rain tomorrow, you may prefer a less advanced app.
However, if you do like to know your weather in detail, there’s plenty on the WeatherBug app to appreciate.
The charts and maps are easy to use, they cover a vast range of weather systems, and you can get frequent updates on changing weather conditions.
Things can get a little technical in places, but for the most part, the forecast is easy to understand.
WeatherBug allows you to track data for over 2.6 million locations from around the world. Essentially, wherever WeatherBug collects information from.
Of course, there are some locations that aren’t covered, or aren’t covered with the same accuracy. WeatherBug services the U.S. well, but for other parts of the planet, you may need a localized app.
Although WeatherBug collects data from around the world, it has very limited language options. WeatherBug is only available in English, French, German, Japanese, Portuguese, and Spanish.
While WeatherBug does use lots of charts and maps to show the weather, navigating the app will be difficult if there’s a language barrier.
Don’t worry, you won’t need to pay extra every time you want to check the wind speed. The only in-app purchase offered by WeatherBug is the option to remove ads. Everything else is provided for free.
The ads for WeatherBug can become a little intrusive. If you plan on using the app extensively and to check for detailed forecasts, you may consider paying for an ad free experience.
Worried there’s a storm coming in? Concerned about the pollen count? Or just wondering if you should head to the beach tomorrow?
WeatherBug is for any weather watcher who likes to know what’s ahead of them.
Weather apps can be tricky to get right. Too complex, and people won’t know what’s meant to be happening.
Too simple, and you can replace the app by looking out the window. WeatherBug strikes a reasonable balance.
WeatherBug allows you to personalize your app experience. You can change the language, the units, and the location.
You can build maps to show complex weather pictures, or keep images simple and check the hourly forecast.
By drawing data from weather stations around the world, WeatherBug provides an update on conditions that’s as accurate as possible.
If you really want to check the weather, most smartphones come with a weather app built-in. These apps provide a basic glance at the forecast, and can sometimes be customized to provide more detail.
If you want an app that’s a little more advanced, The Weather Channel app is hugely popular, and provides hourly weather updates.
The Weather Channel app also connects with social media, so you can hear from others in your community.
CARROT Weather is another popular weather app, and it describes itself as “crazy powerful”.
CARROT is excellent if you want your weather with a little more personality, but you do need to pay for a membership to access all the features.
The sheer number of weather stations WeatherBug collects data from makes this an excellent app for weather watchers interested in easy to understand, accurate forecasts.
Although be warned! Even the most sophisticated weather apps can’t get it right all the time!
