Tweeteorology - Weather Event Reports For Twitter Users By Twitter Users

There have been a number of attempts to bring needed weather data to users over the Twitter social network. Most attempts have either been weak or just lacking any personal traction to provide any relevant value to the average Twitter user.

Today, I am proud to present a project put together by Tweeteorology. Using the WeatherBug API, Tweeteorology allows you to see how the weather is being received by others in your immediate location.

Why this matters

Right now, areas like Washington State are bordering a state of emergency as we see our main freeway (I-5) is completely shut down in flooded areas. Using Tweeteorology, I was able to see the following Tweet that affects me directly:

“Burlington, WA
Terpening (Dustin Terpening): We’re posting pics of mudslides, avalanches, floods, washouts - anything storm related - on our Flickr site - http://is.gd/eSsQ. #waflood“

Through the pictures linked above, I was also learning that based on reports from CNN - the only way into Western Washington at this point is through the airport - no one is driving in, folks. Relevant enough yet?

Now take the idea of Tweeteorology and consider the use of SMS enabled mobile phones, iPhones, BlackBerry phones amongst other smart phones currently in use these days. When extreme weather takes place, more people than ever are turning to Twitter to figure out which areas are worst hit and whether or not immediate decisions need to be made.

At the same time, Twitter users need live, accurate local weather from the largest weather station network in the free world. Not weather from an hour ago, not regurgitated data streamed and re-branded as being exclusive. In extreme weather conditions, Twitter users need to have it live and timely. Tweeteorology along with WeatherBug’s API translates into real time local conditions streamed with real time Twitter reports as to what is happening.

What did Tweeteorology think of using WeatherBug’s API?

Quote from the Tweeteorology developer:

“Your API was the easiest to use.  Google and Twitter could learn from your documentation.”

There you have it. The API is both flexible, available and waiting for you to come up with the next killer weather application using WeatherBug streaming data. So what are you waiting for, sign up today and get to work!