You don’t have to be a fair-weather runner to want to know what the weather’s going to be like when you hit the road or trails. It’ll dictate when we run, where we run, what we wear and more, and in some cases, it’ll help us decide whether or not we run at all.
But often, just using a standard weather prediction app isn’t quite enough. We want to know more than just what the temperature is and if we need to expect rain or snow. For those really keen to be prepared, good apps can be used to check out things like sunrise and sunset, when it actually starts getting dark or light, UV levels, wind speed and direction and so much more.
So, if you’re the kind of runner who wants access to absolutely all this information, it’s probably time to shift into some more specialised applications.
What Do Runners Need to Know About Weather?
As we said, it really depends on the individual. Some want to know everything from how hot or cold it’s going to be to hourly wind speeds and directions, while others couldn’t care less. The other thing is that for athletes trying to stick to training schedules in preparation for races or even just general fitness, it can be nice to know when the best weather is for long runs and such.
Some of the most important things advanced weather apps for athletes record include are:
- Wind strength and direction
- Rain, snow or hail
- Lightening storms
- UV levels
- Sunset and sunrise
- Realistic lighting
- Temperature and real feel
- Humidity
So, with these things in mind, here are some great apps you should consider using so that you can keep in check with the weather while planning runs.
Good To Run
Good To Run is a must-have app for runners who want quick, data-driven insights into whether it’s a good time to head out. The app analyses local weather conditions, including temperature, humidity, wind speed and air quality, and gives a simple rating to indicate whether running is advisable.
Unlike generic weather apps, it factors in how conditions affect athletic performance and comfort. With its easy-to-read interface and customisable alerts, runners can plan ahead and avoid extreme conditions like heatwaves or storms. It’s particularly useful for those training for races or who prefer running in optimal weather, making planning way easier than ever before.
Weather Underground
Weather Underground is a detailed and reliable app for runners looking to track hyper-local weather conditions. It sources real-time data from thousands of personal weather stations, ensuring highly accurate forecasts.
The app’s interactive radar, severe weather alerts, and hourly breakdowns help runners decide the best time to train. Advanced features like air quality and UV index monitoring ensure runners can avoid pollution and excessive sun exposure.
With its smart forecast function, Weather Underground even allows users to customise running preferences, so they receive tailored notifications about when conditions are ideal for their next workout.
BigSky
BigSky is an intelligent weather app that offers hyper-local forecasts specifically designed for users who need precision, making it ideal for runners and other outdoorsy athletes. Using real-time weather data, it provides detailed insights into temperature, humidity, wind speed and he probability of precipitation.
Unlike many other weather apps, BigSky gives minute-by-minute forecasts, helping runners time their sessions perfectly to avoid rain or strong winds, rather than having to plan hours in advance and hope for the best. This is also very useful for those who do more extreme trails.
The app’s voice-enabled functionality allows for hands-free updates while on the move, and its customisable weather alerts t about sudden changes.
With its highly accurate forecasts, BigSky is a great tool for both casual joggers and serious athletes.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
If you’re looking for the ultimate accuracy, the NOAA app is ideal for you, delivering highly accurate, science-backed weather forecasts, making it an excellent resource for runners who want precise data.
As it’s powered by the US government’s weather agency, the app provides detailed satellite and radar imagery, storm tracking and long-term climate predictions.
Runners can use NOAA’s forecasts to plan their runs days in advance, avoiding extreme weather conditions like thunderstorms or high winds.
The app also includes marine and air quality data, which can be pretty useful if you’re running in coastal or urban areas. Its no-frills interface focuses on raw data, ideal for weather-conscious athletes who just want to understand conditions and get on the road or the trails.
Rain Viewer
For those living in areas that are particularly prone to heavy rain, Rain Viewer is perfect for helping you dodge sudden downpours. The app provides real-time rain radar maps and precise precipitation forecasts, helping runners schedule their sessions around showers.
Its animated radar feature lets users track storm movement and intensity, allowing them to see whether light drizzle or a heavy downpour is on the way.
It also has customisable rain alerts, so runners can receive notifications when rain is approaching, even if they’re not actively checking the app, ensuring they’re never caught off guard.
The app covers locations worldwide, making it a great choice for travellers who need reliable weather updates while running in new areas.
Weatherbug
WeatherBug is a highly detailed weather app that provides crucial insights for runners looking to plan their workouts. With live radar maps, lightning alerts and real-time air quality monitoring, it ensures runners can avoid poor conditions such as pollution spikes or extreme heat.
The app’s ‘RealFeel’ temperature feature gives a more accurate representation of how the weather will feel while running, factoring in humidity and wind chill, making it great for picking out kit.
WeatherBug also offers hourly and 10-day forecasts, helping runners schedule their sessions well in advance. Its storm-tracking and pollen count features make it particularly useful for those with allergies or asthma.
