Best Real-Time Weather Datasets & Databases

Quick-fire Buyer’s Guide to Real-Time Weather Data

What is Real-Time Weather Data?

Real-time weather data defines the attributes of weather data happening in real-time and projects how this weather is likely to change over time. When coupled with comprehensive weather data, current weather data is considered by analysts as more accurate, hence the best type of weather data. Real-time weather data is updated by weather data providers in a frequency of minutes and is delivered through XML or in a map format.

How is Real-Time Weather Data collected?

The collection of real-time weather data is achieved using advanced weather data collection systems. These systems include weather satellites, Radio Detection and Ranging (radar) systems, and radiosondes. Weather satellites work in such a way that they record long-term changes in weather patterns by observing energy wavelengths through the electromagnetic spectrum. These satellites are geo-fixed by National Weather Services on a certain location over the surface of the Earth, rotating around the planet. These weather satellites capture real-time visible light images that record storms, clouds, fires, and smog. Infrared images record clouds, water and land temperatures, and the core features of the ocean surface.

What are the attributes of Real-Time Weather Data?

Real-time weather data is made up of attributes that highlight the key elements of the weather forecast. The unique feature about these datasets is that they show the current real-time measures of these parameters which are made available on the internet through live streaming and updates, often called ‘nowcasts’. These attributes are current condition descriptions, temperature values, wind speed, wind direction, the humidity of the atmosphere, visibility range, dew point, barometric pressure, and tendency and precipitation reporting.

What are the uses of Real-Time Weather Data?

Real-time weather data offers more advantages in the real-time decision-making process that is tied down to the weather forecast. Real-time availability of weather data means that the aviation transportation industry is bolstered because flights and travel plans are made depending on the real-time weather attributes of a given region. Also in the transportation industry, this information is critical in determining factors that will help navigate around the challenges that are bound to be experienced by logistics companies during the execution of duties. Real-time weather data is also important to retailers who use nowcasts to evaluate real-time seasonal patterns and how these patterns can affect merchandising and operations.

How can a user assess the quality of Real-Time Weather Data?

Just like any other weather data, the aspect of accuracy and timeliness are important quality parameters of real-time weather data. A user looking to access this information is encouraged to use providers who have systems that frequently update their weather data in a matter of minutes without compromising on the aspect of accuracy and level of completeness. Complete real-time weather data means that all the required attributes of weather parameters are listed and that there is minimal and close to no omission of data for the geographical location of interest.