WeatherBug is a technology company.
WeatherBug has raised $23.0M across 1 funding round.
WeatherBug has raised $23.0M in total across 1 funding round.
WeatherBug has raised $23.0M in total across 1 funding round.
WeatherBug is a New York City-based weather technology brand that delivers hyperlocal weather data through mobile apps on Android, iOS, and Windows Phone, serving over 20 million users with real-time forecasts, live radar, lightning alerts via its "Spark" feature, air quality indexes, and severe weather warnings.[1][3][5] It solves the problem of accessing precise, location-based weather intelligence for consumers while enabling businesses to leverage weather-triggered advertising, originally powered by Earth Networks' extensive sensor network of over 10,000 stations.[2][4] The app stands out for its speed in delivering neighborhood-level alerts and has earned top ratings, including MediaPost’s Appy Awards for best weather app in 2013 and 2019, with ongoing growth through innovations like augmented reality air quality visualizations.[3][5][6]
Founded in 1993 by Bob Marshall and partners under Automated Weather Source (later Earth Networks), WeatherBug began by installing professional-grade weather stations in schools to support K-12 education curricula tied to national standards, networking them for real-time data sharing.[1][2][3] The idea emerged from a focus on educational weather observation, expanding to public websites, TV broadcaster partnerships for local data and camera feeds, and international lightning detection in places like Guinea and Brazil.[3] Pivotal moments included the 2000 launch of its desktop app, followed by mobile versions in 2007 (iPhone) and 2008-2009 (Android), which drove consumer adoption; Earth Networks sold the brand in 2016 to xAd (now GroundTruth) to refocus on enterprise risk mitigation, while retaining sensor ownership to power the app.[2][4][6]
WeatherBug rides the wave of hyperlocal data and IoT-driven environmental intelligence, capitalizing on rising demand for real-time climate insights amid climate change, urbanization, and events like hurricanes—its sensor network and big data models enable predictive analytics for storms, energy efficiency, and public safety.[1][2] Timing aligns with mobile AR adoption and AI-enhanced forecasting, as seen in its AWS-powered features, positioning it amid market forces like expanding smart home/IoT ecosystems and location-based adtech growth.[6] It influences the ecosystem by powering third-party apps, educating via GLOBE integrations, and providing broadcasters/governments with superior data, bridging consumer weather tools to enterprise risk management.[2][3]
WeatherBug's trajectory points to deeper AI and AR integrations for immersive experiences, expanded IoT partnerships for smart cities/energy, and scaled ad revenue as location data privacy evolves.[6] Trends like climate resilience and hyper-personalized alerts will propel it, potentially amplifying GroundTruth's platform influence in adtech-weather hybrids. As a pioneer blending education, consumer access, and enterprise utility since 1993, it remains primed to deliver "environmental intelligence for all aspects of people’s lives."[5]
WeatherBug has raised $23.0M across 1 funding round. Most recently, it raised $23.0M Series B in February 2004.
| Date | Round | Lead Investors | Other Investors |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feb 1, 2004 | $23.0M Series B |