AccuWeather

Website and App FAQs

Looking for help? Browse the list below to find answers to the most common questions about using AccuWeather.

If you still need help, feel free to contact our support team at support@accuweather.com.

Common Questions by Topic

Accounts, Subscriptions, and Access
Logging In and Account Basics
Subscription Status and Access
Managing Subscriptions and Devices
Platform Compatibility and Setup
Ads, Privacy, and Data Use
App & Website Features and Settings
Location Management
Radar & Maps
Notifications & Alerts
App Widgets
Display and Accessibility Settings
Understanding Forecast Data

Accounts, Subscriptions, and Access

Covers login, subscription benefits, and related user and device access options.

Logging In and Account Basics

Logging in and out, account benefits, and how app login differs from device login.

Q. Why am I being asked to log in to the app? What does logging in do?

Logging into the AccuWeather App is optional—you can use all of the app’s core features without creating an account. However, logging in unlocks additional benefits, such as access to longer forecasts and the ability to save more favorite locations.

To log in, you’ll need to create an AccuWeather account within the app. You can either sign up with your email address or use your existing Google or Apple credentials.

Once you’re logged in, the Account icon at the top of the screen will appear as a filled-in shape.

Note: If you have a paid version of the app, the account you use to log into the app does not need to match the app store account (Google Play or Apple ID) used to make the purchase. These two logins are separate.

Back to FAQs

Q. How do I know if I am logged in?

Website: Logging in is not currently available on the website.

AccuWeather App (Android & iOS): Look at the account icon at the top of the screen:

  • A solid (filled-in) icon means you are logged in.
  • An empty (outline-only) icon means you are logged out.

Back to FAQs

Q: What’s the difference between logging into the app and logging into my device’s app store?

Logging into the app uses an AccuWeather account and gives you access to certain app features (like longer forecasts and more saved locations).

Logging into your device (via your Google or Apple account) is what validates your app purchase or subscription.

These two logins are separate. Depending on your subscription, you may need both to unlock all available features.

Note: If you have a paid version of the app, the account you use to log into the app does not need to match the app store account (Google Play or Apple ID) used to make the purchase. 

Back to FAQs

Q. Do I need to log in to use the paid version of the app?

In most cases, signing into your device using the same app store account used to make your purchase is enough to activate your paid version.

However, some features—such as extended forecasts or saved location tiles—may only appear when you’re also logged into the app with an AccuWeather account.

Note: If you have a paid version of the app, the account you use to log into the app does not need to match the app store account (Google Play or Apple ID) used to make the purchase. These two logins are separate.

Back to FAQs

Q. What happens if I log out of the app?

Logging out won’t delete your saved locations or settings—they remain on your device. If you have a paid subscription, it also remains active after logging out.

However, depending on your subscription type, logging out may limit access to certain features—such as longer forecasts. If that happens, log back in to restore access.

Back to FAQs

Q: Why do I get more features after logging in, even if I didn’t pay for the app?

Creating a free AccuWeather account and logging in gives you access to additional features, like more saved locations and longer forecasts—even without a paid version.

Back to FAQs

Subscription Status and Access

Verifying paid access, identifying what version you’re using, and what features come with it.

The easiest way to tell if your paid subscription is active is that you will no longer see ads in the app. 

In addition to an ad-free experience, some users may also notice access to extra features, such as:

  • Enhanced AccuWeather Alerts™
  • More detailed hourly forecast graphs
  • Extended forecast days
  • Premium widgets
  • Custom Health & Activities forecasts
  • Additional map layers
  • Support for more saved locations

If you’re seeing ads and expected otherwise, make sure you’re signed into your device using the same app store account (Google Play or Apple ID) used to purchase the subscription. Some features may also require logging into the AccuWeather App, depending on how your access was set up.

Back to FAQs

Q. How can I tell if I’m using the free or paid version of the app?

  • If you’re seeing ads, you’re likely using the free version.
  • If there are no ads, you’re using a paid version.

Some paid versions also offer longer forecasts, more saved locations, and access to custom features. You may need to log in to the app to unlock all available features.

Back to FAQs

Q. How do I know what kind of subscription I have?

Premium+

  • Our best ad-free experience
  • Available with monthly or yearly payments
  • Includes exclusive map layers, enhanced AccuWeather Alerts™, and the longest available forecast data
  • If you don’t see ads and the top of the Menu says “You’re a Premium Plus Member”, you have Premium+

Premium

  • Ad-free experience
  • Available with monthly or yearly payments
  • If you don’t see ads but do see an offer to upgrade to Premium+, you likely have Premium
  • As of September 2, 2025, Premium is no longer offered for new purchase, but existing subscriptions are still supported

Platinum

  • One-time payment for lifetime ad-free access
  • If you paid once, don’t see ads, and see an offer to upgrade to Premium+, you may have Platinum
  • Platinum is no longer offered for new purchase, but existing subscriptions are still supported

Seeing ads unexpectedly?

  • Make sure you’re signed in with the same app store account (Google Play or Apple ID) you used to purchase your subscription.
  • Premium and Platinum users must also log in to the AccuWeather App to unlock all features.

Back to FAQs

Q. I used to have 45 days of forecast data, but now I only see 30. What changed?

AccuWeather.com (Website)

The website provides access to:

  • 45 days of forecast data on the Daily page
  • 10 hours of forecast data on the Hourly page
  • 90 days of forecast data on the Monthly page

At this time, no login is required or supported on the website, so these limits are the same for all users.

AccuWeather App (Android & iOS)

The latest version of the app offers new benefits to logged-in users, including extended forecast data.

By default, app users have access to:

  • 30 days of forecast data on the Daily screen
  • 72 hours of forecast data on the Hourly screen

After logging in, users unlock:

  • 45 days of forecast data on the Daily screen
  • 120 hours (5 days) of forecast data on the Hourly screen

If you’re seeing only 30 days, it’s likely because you’re not logged in.

Note: You can get access to even more features and data—like AccuWeather Alerts™, ad-free browsing, and exclusive map layers—by upgrading to the paid version of the app.

Back to FAQs

Q. What should I do if my subscription doesn’t seem to be working?

If your access didn’t transfer after an app update—or if you’re seeing ads when you expected not to—try the following steps to restore your subscription:

  1. Make sure you’re signed into your device using the same app store account (Google Play or Apple ID) used to make the purchase.
  2. Restart the app.
  3. If that doesn’t work, uninstall and reinstall the AccuWeather App.

If you’re still experiencing issues, contact our support team at support@accuweather.com for further assistance.

Back to FAQs

Managing Subscriptions and Devices

Device changes, multi-device usage, and canceling subscription.

Q: Can I use my subscription on more than one device?

Yes, but with two requirements:

  • You must be signed in to each device using the same app store account (Google Play or Apple ID) that was used to purchase the subscription.
  • Depending on your subscription type, you may also need to log into the AccuWeather App to access all features.

Back to FAQs

Q. What happens to my subscription if I get a new phone or tablet?

To keep your subscription benefits, install the app on your new device and make sure you’re signed into the same app store account (Google Play or Apple ID) that was used to make the original purchase.

Depending on your subscription type, you may also need to log into the AccuWeather App to access all features.

Back to FAQs

Q. Can I cancel my subscription?

Yes. Subscriptions are managed through your device’s app store account:

  • iOS: Open the Apple App Store, go to Apple ID > Subscriptions
  • Android: Open the Google Play Store, go to Account > Subscriptions

Logging into the AccuWeather app is not required for cancellation.

Note: Canceling your subscription does not automatically delete your AccuWeather account. Your account and payment details may still be retained by the app store (Google Play or Apple) and by AccuWeather for billing and support purposes. See our Privacy Policy for details on data retention and deletion.

Back to FAQs

Q. How do I remove the app from my device?

Preinstalled apps: If the AccuWeather App came preinstalled on your device, it cannot be removed by AccuWeather. In most cases, preinstalled apps can only be disabled, not fully deleted.

For more information or assistance, please contact your device manufacturer.

Downloaded apps: If you downloaded the AccuWeather App from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store, you can uninstall it at any time through your device’s standard app management process.

Note: Uninstalling the app does not automatically delete your AccuWeather account or subscription. See I deleted your app. What information do you still have about me? for more information. 

Back to FAQs

Platform Compatibility and Setup

Supported platforms and device-specific features.

Q. Will the app work on my Smartwatch?

Apple Watch (WatchOS): Yes, the AccuWeather App is fully supported on Apple Watch. It requires the iOS version of the AccuWeather App installed from the Apple App Store.

The WatchOS app syncs with the weather data and screens from your iPhone, including:

  • Current location updates, if location permission is granted
  • New ability to search for and access your favorite locations directly from the watch
  • Favorites saved on WatchOS will also appear in the iOS app
  • Expanded weather views, including Current Conditions, Hourly, and Daily forecasts

Android Smartwatches: The AccuWeather mobile app is not currently supported on Android smartwatches.

However, there is a separate, standalone AccuWeather app available specifically for Android smartwatches, which can be downloaded from the Google Play Store on your watch. (See also: AccuWeather Launches New Android Wear 2.0 App Worldwide)   

Back to FAQs

Q. Can I use the app in landscape mode on my tablet?

Yes, the AccuWeather App supports landscape mode on most tablets. When you rotate your device, the app will automatically adjust its layout to display in landscape orientation, allowing for a wider view of content like radar maps, hourly forecasts, and widgets.

If the app doesn’t rotate:

  • Make sure your device’s auto-rotate setting is enabled
  • Ensure you have the latest version of the AccuWeather app installed

Back to FAQs

Q. Do I have to enable location permissions to use AccuWeather?

No, location permissions are not required to use the AccuWeather App or website. You can always:

  • Search for locations manually
  • View forecasts for any favorite or recently viewed location

However, enabling location permissions (which, on mobile devices, may include GPS) helps provide a more accurate and personalized experience.

AccuWeather.com (Website)

If your browser allows location access, the site can:

  • Automatically show weather for your current area
  • Offer more relevant content without manual searching

AccuWeather App (Android & iOS)

Allowing precise location access enables the app to:

  • Automatically detect your current location
  • Provide real-time, hyper-local forecasts and severe weather alerts wherever you are

While not required, enabling location permissions is recommended for the most accurate and personalized experience.

Back to FAQs

Q. How do I find the version number of the AccuWeather App?

To check which version of the app you’re using:

  1. Tap the Menu icon (three horizontal lines in the top-right corner).
  2. Tap Settings, then scroll to the bottom of the screen.

You’ll see two version numbers:

  • App Version  –  the core mobile app release
  • Web Version – the content and feature set currently being delivered to the app

These two version numbers help the support and product teams track feature updates, performance issues, and compatibility across devices.

Back to FAQs

Ads, Privacy, and Data Use

Includes FAQs related to advertising, personalization, and how user data is handled.

Q. Why are there so many ads placed within the content?

AccuWeather relies on advertising to keep our weather services free for all users. We do this using embedded ads.

Prefer an ad-free experience?

Back to FAQs

Q. Why am I seeing full-page ads?

AccuWeather relies on advertising to keep our weather services free for all users. We understand that full-page ads can be disruptive, so we’ve taken steps to limit their frequency.

Prefer an ad-free experience?

Back to FAQs

Q. Why are the ads I see so personalized to my interests?

AccuWeather uses personalized advertising (formerly called interest-based advertising) to show ads that are more relevant to you. This type of advertising uses online data to deliver content tailored to your interests—helping improve the user experience and increase effectiveness for advertisers.

To learn more, please review our Cookie Policy.

Apps (Android & iOS): You can manage your Targeted Advertising preferences.

  1. Tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines in the top-right corner).
  2. Select Settings, then tap Privacy Settings.
  3. From the top menu, select Purposes.
  4. Find the toggle for Targeted Advertising:
    • If the toggle is enabled (black), you can change your settings. Tap Save to confirm.
    • If the toggle is disabled (gray), this option is not available in your current location.

Back to FAQs

Q. What can I do if I see an ad that I think is indecent?

AccuWeather does not allow or promote spyware, adware, or indecent advertisements. We take these concerns seriously.

If you see an ad that seems inappropriate or intrusive:

  1. Take a screenshot of the ad.
  2. Include the URL or any relevant information.
  3. Email it to support@accuweather.com.

Our team will investigate the issue thoroughly and take appropriate action.

Back to FAQs

Q. What are you doing with my data, including location data?

AccuWeather uses your data—including location data—to provide the services and features you choose to use, such as weather forecasts, severe weather alerts, and location-based updates.

We respect your device’s location settings. We use your device preferences and platform capabilities to determine the precision of your location data. See our Privacy Policy for full details.

Back to FAQs

Q. I deleted your app. What information do you still have about me?

Uninstalling the app does not automatically delete your account or subscription.

  • If you had a paid subscription, your account and payment details may still be retained by the app store (Google Play or Apple) and by AccuWeather for billing and support purposes.
  • AccuWeather keeps the minimum information necessary to operate your account and comply with legal, financial, or technical obligations.
  • Some data may be retained in secure backup systems for a limited time as permitted by law. 

See our Privacy Policy for details on data retention and deletion.

Back to FAQs

Q. Does AccuWeather sell user information to third parties?

We do not sell your personal information in exchange for money. Some forms of data sharing for advertising purposes may be treated as a ‘sale’ or ‘sharing’ under applicable laws. Please review our Privacy Policy for details.

If you sign up for a paid website service (like AccuWeather Premium or Professional) or use a free product like the AccuWeather App, your personal information is handled securely and may be shared with authorized partners as described in our Privacy Policy, including for service improvement and advertising.

Back to FAQs

App & Website Features and Settings

Focuses on functionality, preferences, and using key features.

Location Management

Add, remove, or edit your favorite locations and understand different location types.

Q: What’s the difference between Default Location, Current Location, Favorite Location, and other location types?

AccuWeather uses several types of locations to personalize your weather experience across the app and website:

  • Current Location: This is your real-time location, determined by your device’s location permissions (such as GPS or Wi-Fi).
    • Can update automatically as you move (requires appropriate location permissions)
    • Displayed in the first location tile on your Home page (website) or Home screen (app); this tile cannot be removed or manually changed
    • (App Only) Represented by a pulsating blue dot on maps
      (See also: Do I have to enable location permissions to use AccuWeather?)
  • Selected Location: This is the location currently in focus—the one you’re actively viewing in the app or on the website.
    • Determines the forecast data and maps shown
    • May be your Current Location, a Favorite, or any other place you’ve searched
    • Does not need to be saved to access weather information
    • (App only) Represented by a green pin on maps
  • Default Location (App Only): This is the main location you choose to display by default–particularly useful if you prefer not to share your location. Can be viewed and changed by going to: Settings → Default Location
  • Favorite Locations (App Only): These are the places you manually add and save in the app.
    • Shown as tiles on your Home screen
    • Can be removed or replaced with other locations
      (See also: How do I add, save, or delete a location?)
    • You can save multiple favorites–the number depends on your login status and subscription level
    • Represented by orange star dots on maps
  • Recent Locations: These are the locations you’ve recently searched for or viewed.
    • Displayed on your Home page (website only)
    • Listed when you select the Location Search bar
    • Update automatically as you search and select new places—no manual saving required
    • Stored using your device’s browser cookies (on web) or app cache (on mobile); may reset if data is cleared
    • Limited to a small number, depending on your device (typically 3-5)
      (See also: How do I add, save, or delete a location?)

Each type of location serves a unique purpose, helping you easily view weather data for where you are and for places that matter to you.

Back to FAQs

Q. How do I add, save, or delete a location?

Locations behave differently depending on your subscription type and login status, as well as the device and system you are using. See the below sections for details.

AccuWeather.com (Website)

  • The last 3 locations you’ve searched for appear under Recent Locations on the Home page.
    • On desktops, up to 5 recent locations show under Recent when you click in the Location Search bar on any non-Home page.
    • On mobile devices, recent locations are accessible only from the Home page.
  • Website locations are not manually saved; they are based on recent searches and browser cookie history.
  • To remove recent locations, clear your browser cookies.
  • To retain recent locations, make sure cookies are enabled and not cleared between sessions.

AccuWeather App (Android & iOS)

  • Your current location appears in the top-left tile on the Home screen.
    (See also: What’s the difference between Default Location, Current Location, Favorite Location, and other location types?)
  • To add a favorite location:
    1. Tap the Add (+) button on an empty tile.
    2. Use the Search bar to find a city, address, ZIP code, or point of interest.
    3. Tap a result to save it as a favorite location.
  • To delete a favorite location:
    1. Next to Your Locations, tap Edit.
    2. Tap the Remove (-) button on the tile you want to delete.
    3. Tap Done to finish.
      Note: The current location tile cannot be deleted.
      (See also: Do I have to enable location permissions to use AccuWeather?)
  • To change a favorite location:
    1. On the tile itself, tap the Edit (pencil) icon.
    2. Use the Search bar to find a new location.
    3. Select it to replace the existing one.
  • Recent locations: 
    • The last 5 locations you’ve searched for appear under Recent when you tap the Search bar from the Home screen. 
    • You can make a recent location a favorite by tapping the Plus (+) icon next to it.
      Tip:  If you don’t see a Plus (+) icon, it means you’ve reached your favorite location limit. To add another, you’ll need to remove a tile or edit an existing one.
  • Favorite location limits: You can save at least 5 additional favorite locations, depending on your subscription and login status. Once you reach your limit, you’ll need to remove a tile or edit an existing one to add a new favorite.
  • Apple Watch users: If you use an Apple Watch, you can also search for locations directly from the watch app and mark them as favorites—these will automatically sync with your iPhone app.

Back to FAQs

Q: Why doesn’t the Home screen have a bottom navigation bar like other app screens?

The Home screen on the app is designed to help you choose which location you want to view weather data for. Because of that, the bottom navigation bar isn’t shown until you select a specific location—either by tapping one of your location tiles or using the Search bar.

If you’d prefer to skip the Home screen and go straight to weather details, you can have the app open directly to the Today screen for your Default Location. To change this setting, tap the Menu icon (three horizontal lines in the top-right corner), then go to Settings > Default Home and select Today as your preferred start screen.

Back to FAQs

Q: Why am I receiving so many notifications and alerts for locations that aren’t my current location?

When you add a location as a favorite and have notifications enabled, the app automatically turns on alerts for that new location, even if it’s not your current one. This includes:

  • AccuWeather Alerts™ (available with a paid subscription; applies only to locations in the contiguous United States)
  • Government Alerts
  • Lightning Alerts (U.S. Locations only; alerts are triggered when lightning is detected within a 15-mile radius of the selected location)

These notifications are adjustable per favorite. To learn how to turn these notifications off, see: How do I manage notifications?

Back to FAQs

Q. Why is MinuteCast® not showing for my location?

MinuteCast® is not available in all areas. If your location does not support MinuteCast, the chart and/or dial will not appear. Availability depends on data coverage for your specific region.

See also: Why can’t I find the MinuteCast® option?

Back to FAQs

Q. Why is my address showing up in MinuteCast®?

MinuteCast® provides hyper-local, minute-by-minute precipitation forecasts with a resolution of about 0.5 square miles or 1.3 square kilometers. This means it can show forecasts for your exact location—even down to your street address or neighborhood, not just your city or ZIP code.

The app may show your street address or neighborhood to help deliver the most accurate forecast possible. AccuWeather does not store or retain your location information; it is used solely to provide a precise MinuteCast forecast.

Back to FAQs

Q. Why do I keep seeing a Hurricane icon in the app but there are no tropical storms near me?

A white Global Hurricane icon may appear in the app when there is an active tropical storm or hurricane anywhere in the world—not just near your current location.

This icon links to the Hurricane Center, which provides updates on all active and recently active tropical systems worldwide. Its appearance doesn’t necessarily mean your area is at risk.

If you are located in an area where tropical storms are tracked by the U.S. and a hurricane develops nearby, you may see a red and white Local Hurricane icon. This indicates a system that may be more relevant to your area.

Even if there are no storms nearby, you can use the Hurricane Center to monitor activity in other regions and stay informed about global tropical weather events.

Back to FAQs

Radar & Maps

Learn how to use interactive maps, adjust animation settings, and explore weather layers.

Q. How do I view the radar map?

AccuWeather.com (Website)

  1. Select a location, then click Radar at the top of the screen.
  2. Use the preview map to:
    • Zoom (on mobile: pinch to zoom)
    • Pan (on mobile: use two fingers to drag)
    • Click the expand button to view the map in full screen
  3. Click the play button to view past-to-future radar animation.
  4. Scroll down to the More Maps section to explore additional maps such as Temperature or Clouds. (See also: How do I view even more maps?)

AccuWeather App (Android & iOS)

  1. Go to the Radar & Maps screen.
  2. Tap the floating Radar button at the top.
  3. Then use the map to:
  4. Swipe the floating menu horizontally to explore other relevant maps like Temperature and Air Quality Index.
    Note: The maps shown in this menu may vary depending on the weather conditions in the selected location. (See also: How do I view even more maps?)

Back to FAQs

Q. How do I view even more maps?

AccuWeather.com (Website)

  1. Select a location, then click Radar at the top of the screen.
  2. Scroll down to the More Maps section to view suggested options like Temperature and Clouds.
  3. After selecting a map, scroll further down to see additional options, such as Wind Flow and 5-Day Precipitation Outlook.
  4. In certain map views, the top navigation bar changes to a horizontal menu, where you can browse and select additional map types.

You can also access additional maps from the main menu (three horizontal lines in the top-right corner), under Around the Globe:

  • Hurricane Tracker – Displays current and recent hurricane, typhoon, and cyclone activity worldwide
  • Severe Weather – Shows government-issued alerts by country
  • Winter Center – (U.S. only) Displays the Snow and Ice map for your selected location

AccuWeather App (Android & iOS)

  1. Go to the Radar & Maps screen.
  2. Swipe the floating map menu horizontally to browse recommended maps—such as Temperature and Air Quality Index—based on the current weather conditions in the selected location.
  3. Tap All Maps (far-left button in the floating menu) to:
    • View all available map types
    • Identify the selected map (orange checkmark)
    • Switch to maps such as Government Advisories or Lightning
    • Access AccuWeather-exclusive maps (with a corner logo)
    • See subscriber-only maps (with a lock icon)

Tip: Tap the info icon next to any section header to learn more about that category of maps.

Back to FAQs

Q. Why are some maps blank?

Some maps may appear blank if there is no available data for the selected location. This is more likely to occur outside of the U.S., where certain map layers may have limited coverage.

It can also happen when viewing seasonal maps during off-season conditions—for example, checking a snow map on a warm summer day.

AccuWeather is actively working to reduce the frequency of these occurrences in future updates. Try switching to a different map type or location for more data availability.

Back to FAQs

Q. How do I know what map I am looking at?

AccuWeather.com (Website): The map name is listed above the map.

AccuWeather App (Android & iOS): The map name is listed in the All Maps menu.

  • Tap the All Maps button (the far-left option in the floating menu)
  • The name of the selected map will be highlighted with an orange checkmark

Back to FAQs

Q. What happened to the Forecast Eye Path® map?

AccuWeather.com (Website)

The Forecast Eye Path® map, which refers to projected hurricane track, is still available through the Hurricane Tracker page:

  1. On any page, click the menu icon (three horizontal lines in the top-right corner)
  2. Under Around the Globe, select Hurricane Tracker
  3. Under Active Storms, click a storm name
  4. A preview of the Forecast Eye Path map will appear—click it to view full-screen

AccuWeather App (Android & iOS)

The map has been renamed to Hurricane Tracker:

  1. From the Radar & Maps screen, tap All Maps (far-left option in the floating menu)
  2. Under the Hurricane Center category, select Hurricane Tracker

Back to FAQs

Q. What happened to the Watches and Warnings map?

The Watches and Warnings map is still available in the AccuWeather App, but it has been renamed to Government Advisories.

On the AccuWeather website, this same map is labeled Severe Weather.

Both versions display government-issued weather warnings and alerts, based on the country of your selected location. Availability and advisory coverage may vary by country.

Note: Users with a paid version of the app can also view additional alert detail on the AccuWeather Alerts™ map.

Back to FAQs

Notifications & Alerts

Manage alert types, sound preferences, and which locations send notifications.

Q. How do I manage notifications?

AccuWeather.com (Website)

You can receive browser-based notifications for important weather updates, including severe weather alerts, lightning alerts, and breaking news.

To manage website notifications:

  1. Make sure notifications are enabled in your browser settings for AccuWeather.com.
  2. On any AccuWeather.com page, click the menu icon (three horizontal lines in the top-right corner).
  3. From the top of the menu, select Settings, then go to Notification Settings.
    Note: If you do not see settings for notifications, please revisit step 1.
  4. Choose the types of notifications you want to receive (e.g., Government Alerts, Lightning Alerts, Weather News).

Note: Notifications are only active while your browser is open or running in the background; this may vary by browser and system settings.

AccuWeather App (Android & iOS)

The app allows you to receive push notifications for Government Alerts, Lightning, Weather News, and more—based on your Current Location and the Favorite Locations you have saved.

To manage app notifications:

  1. Tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines in the top-right corner).
  2. Select Settings, then tap Manage Notifications.
  3. Use the On/Off switches to choose which types of notifications to receive.
  4. Tap each type to manage notifications per favorite location.
    • To turn off a category entirely, toggle off all locations under that type.
  5. Only your Current Location and Favorite Locations can receive notifications. Add or edit Home screen location tiles as needed.
  6. Tap System Preferences from the Manage Notifications screen to adjust how notifications appear on your device.

Android Only:

  • Use Persistent Notifications to show or hide current temperature in your Status Bar and Notification Drawer. This applies to your Default Location.
  • Paid subscribers can customize this to display info like Air Quality Index or Hurricane Tracker information for their Default Location instead.

Back to FAQs

Q: In the app, how can I add the temperature to the Status Bar?

This feature is available on Android devices only. You can enable a Persistent Notification, which displays the current temperature in your device’s Status Bar and Notification Drawer. This display remains active even if the app is closed or your other notifications are cleared. 

Note: The temperature shown is based on your Default Location. 

To verify or update your Default Location:

  1. Tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines in the top-right corner)
  2. Tap Settings
  3. Next to Default Location, check which location is listed
  4. To change it, tap Default Location, then select a different option

For steps to turn on your Persistent Notification, see: How do I manage notifications?

Back to FAQs

Q. Why isn’t the Persistent Notification showing the correct temperature or location?

On some Android devices, the Persistent Notification (which shows the current temperature in your Status Bar and Notification Drawer) may not always update correctly. You might see the wrong temperature or a location you don’t recognize.

This usually happens when:

  • Your Default Location is set to Current Location, and
  • Location Access is set to “Always” or “Allow all the time”

In these cases, the app may briefly assign your location to a nearby city or use a backup location if it loses access to your current one. It may not switch back automatically when access is restored.

Tip: To avoid this issue, set your Default Location to a specific city instead of using Current Location.

These are known issues, and we’re actively working on improvements in a future update.

Back to FAQs

Q. What do the different alert sounds mean in the app?

The AccuWeather app uses two custom alert tones to help signal the urgency of certain weather alerts:

  • One tone is used for high-urgency, potentially life-threatening alerts
  • Another is used for less urgent but still significant weather events

Other notifications—such as daily forecasts, weather news, or routine alerts—use your device’s default notification tone.

These sounds are designed to help you quickly recognize the severity level of an alert so you can respond appropriately.

Tip: You can manage whether sounds play with notifications by adjusting your device’s notification settings for the AccuWeather app.

Back to FAQs

App Widgets

Set up and manage home and lock screen widgets.

Q. Why is my widget missing?

Some home screen widgets were renamed or replaced in the latest AccuWeather App update. For example:

  • The Light and Current Dark widgets were replaced by the new Current Conditions widget
  • The 3-Days Light and 3-Days Dark widgets were replaced with the new 36-Hour Forecast + Current Conditions widget

Because of these changes, your existing widgets may not work as expected after updating the app. If that happens, simply remove the widget and add it again from your device’s widget menu. 

You might need to re-add widgets manually if they disappeared after the update.

Back to FAQs

Q. Why is my widget blank?

After upgrading to the latest version of the app, some iOS users may notice that widgets appear with no data or images.

This is a known issue on iOS devices. To resolve it, try the following workaround:

  1. Press and hold the widget to open the menu. 
  2. Tap Edit Widget.
    Note: If the Widget screen then says “Unable to Load”, tap the X to close the message. The widget should re-load with your current location.
    Then, repeat steps 1-2.
  3. Next to Location, select either Follow Me or Default Location.
  4. In the Search bar, enter the name of your preferred city.
  5. Select the city to set it as the widget’s location.

This should restore the widget and display the correct weather content.

Back to FAQs

Q. Why does my widget say “Can’t show content?”

Some Android widgets—especially those showing 36 hours of weather—may occasionally display a white screen with the message ‘Can’t show content.’

This is a known issue, and our team is actively working on a fix.

If the widget doesn’t reset on its own after some time, try the following steps:

  1. Restart the app
  2. Restart your device
  3. If the issue persists, remove the widget and add it again

Back to FAQs

Q. Why does my widget change colors?

There are a couple of reasons why your widget background may change colors:

  • A red background indicates that there is an AccuWeather Alert™ (available in the paid version of the app) or a Government Alert active for the widget’s location.
  • If your widget is set to Weather Display Mode, the background color will change to reflect current weather conditions—such as being brighter for sun or dimmer for clouds—and will also adjust for day or night based on your selected location.

Most widgets support background color changes to signal active alerts. Some may display only icons or labels, others may show a combination of visual indicators, and a few widget styles may have no alert indicators at all.

You can tap the alert icon or label on the widget to view full alert details in the app.

Back to FAQs

Q. Why doesn’t my widget display correctly when I resize it?

On Android devices especially, some combinations of screen size and resolution can affect how a widget displays and how much it can be resized. As a result, the widget may appear misaligned, clipped, or incomplete after resizing.

To fix this:

  • Try resizing the widget until it displays correctly
  • Or use a different widget style that better fits your screen layout

AccuWeather is working to improve widget compatibility across different screen sizes and device models.

Back to FAQs

Q. Why isn’t my widget showing the correct temperature or location?

Some widgets may show the wrong temperature or location, especially while traveling or if the app temporarily loses access to your location.

This can occur when your widget’s Location is set to Current Location, and Follow Me is toggled on. When traveling, the app may briefly assign the widget to a nearby city or region, causing display inconsistencies.

Alternatively, if the app temporarily loses access to your location, it may assign the widget to one of your other favorite locations, and not automatically switch back to Current Location when access is restored.

These are known issues, and our team is actively working on resolutions in a future update.

To improve consistency, try setting the widget’s Default Location to a specific place rather than using Current Location.

Back to FAQs

Q. Does the app offer lock screen widgets?

Yes, lock screen widgets are available on iOS devices, including iPhones and iPads.

You can add an AccuWeather widget to your lock screen through your device’s widget settings, allowing you to quickly view current conditions, temperature, or alerts without unlocking your device.

Note: Lock screen widgets are not currently supported on Android devices.

Back to FAQs

Display and Accessibility Settings

Customize how the app looks and feels.

Q. Why does the text in the app look smaller in the latest version?

The font style in the updated app has changed, but the text size itself has not been reduced in a significant way. Some elements—such as the temperature—are now displayed in bold. When bold text is compared directly with regular text, the regular text may appear smaller, even though both are the same size as before.

There are also a few known issues with how text scales on certain devices. Our team is working on improvements to ensure the app displays consistently across all supported devices.

If you prefer larger text overall, you can adjust the font size in your device’s Accessibility or Display settings. The AccuWeather app will follow those settings to help make the content easier to read.

Back to FAQs

Q. How do I change Fahrenheit to Celsius or vice versa?

AccuWeather.com (Website)

To change the temperature units:

  1. Click the menu icon (three horizontal lines in the top-right corner).
  2. At the top of the menu, select Settings.
  3. From the Units menu, select either Imperial (°F) or Metric (°C).

AccuWeather App (Android & iOS)

To change the temperature units:

  1. Tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines in the top-right corner), then select Settings.
  2. Tap Units, then choose from:

Back to FAQs

Q: What are Imperial units?

Imperial units are a system of measurement commonly used in the United States and a few other countries. When you select the Imperial unit setting in the AccuWeather app or website, your weather data will display using the following units:

  • Temperature: °F (Fahrenheit)
  • Wind speed: mph (miles per hour)
  • Precipitation: in (inches)
  • Visibility: mi (miles)
  • Cloud ceiling: ft (feet)

This setting is helpful if you’re most familiar with U.S. measurement standards.

Back to FAQs

Q: What are Hybrid Units, and how do they work in the app?

When you select the Hybrid unit setting in the AccuWeather app, it combines imperial and metric measurements to reflect common usage patterns in some regions.

With Hybrid Units enabled, you’ll see:

  • Temperature: °C (Celsius)
  • Wind speed: mph (miles per hour)
  • Precipitation: mm (millimeters)
  • Visibility: mi (miles)
  • Cloud ceiling: ft (feet)
  • All other units: displayed in metric

This option is useful if you prefer Celsius and metric units but are more familiar with certain elements like wind speed or visibility in imperial terms.

Back to FAQs

Q. Why can’t I find the MinuteCast® option?

Not all locations support MinuteCast® data. If your selected location is unsupported, the MinuteCast feature will not appear. (See also: Why is MinuteCast® not showing for my location?)

  • Website: If MinuteCast is available for your location, you’ll see a MinuteCast option in the top navigation bar, between Radar and Monthly.
  • AccuWeather App (Android & iOS): If supported, MinuteCast will appear on the Today screen—either as a dial or a chart.

To switch from the chart to the dial view:

  1. Tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines in the top-right corner)
  2. Select Settings
  3. Tap Today, then choose Dial

Back to FAQs

Q. How do I change to dark mode?

AccuWeather.com (Website)

Dark Mode currently applies only to radar and map views. To change the map style:

  1. Click the menu icon (three horizontal lines in the top-right corner)
  2. Select Settings
  3. Under Map Style, choose either Light or Dark

AccuWeather App (Android & iOS)

  1. Tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines in the top-right corner)
  2. Use the Light Mode toggle at the bottom of the menu to switch between Light and Dark modes

Note: If you previously selected System as your Display Mode in Settings, using the toggle will override that setting and apply your chosen mode directly.

Back to FAQs

Q. What happened to Black mode?

Black Mode is not currently available in the AccuWeather App or on the website. 

  • Website: Light and Dark modes apply only to maps, not the full site interface
  • AccuWeather App (Android & iOS): Only Light Mode and Dark Mode are supported at this time

Back to FAQs

Q. What happens when I choose System as my Display Mode?

If you select System as your Display Mode in the app’s Settings, the AccuWeather app will automatically match your device’s system-wide appearance setting (Light or Dark mode).

When using this setting:

  • The app’s Light Mode toggle (found in the main menu) will reflect whatever mode your device is currently using
  • The app’s appearance will automatically update if you change your device’s system mode

Note: If you manually toggle Light or Dark mode from the menu, this will override the System setting and apply your selected mode directly.

Back to FAQs

Q. Is Weather Display Mode still available?

There is no Weather Display Mode setting within the AccuWeather app interface or on the website. However, the app automatically reflects current weather conditions through its visual design.

The background color of most app screens as well as the Home screen location tiles changes to match the weather and time of day for the selected location. For example, appearing brighter when it’s sunny or dimmer when it’s cloudy or nighttime.

No manual setting is required—this behavior is built into the app’s design.

Additionally, Weather Display Mode is still available as a widget option. When enabled, widgets dynamically adjust their background color based on current conditions, similar to the app screens and Home screen location tiles.

Back to FAQs

Q: In the app, can I turn off the Weather Centers on the Home screen?

The Global Weather Center and Severe Weather Center banners on the Home screen cannot currently be turned off or hidden. 

These banners appear to highlight significant global or regional weather events and are intended to keep users informed. While you can’t hide them, they are updated only when relevant and do not replace your saved locations or affect forecast data.

Back to FAQs

Q. Why aren’t my settings changes taking effect?

In some cases, changes made in Settings–especially those related to locations or notifications–may not take effect immediately. This can happen due to:

  • Temporary syncing delays
  • Background refresh limitations (especially on Android devices)
  • App needing to be fully closed and reopened to apply changes

Try restarting the app to ensure your settings are applied. If the issue continues, check for any available app updates or reinstall the app to reset preferences.

If you still need help, feel free to contact our support team at support@accuweather.com.

Back to FAQs

Understanding Forecast Data

Find out how to read and interpret key forecast details.

Q: Does the MinuteCast® dial turn, or is it stationary? How do I read it?

The MinuteCast® dial–available only on the AccuWeather App–may look like a wheel, but it’s actually designed like a clock or watch face and is stationary.

  • Your current time appears at the top of the dial.
  • It progresses clockwise in one-minute intervals, showing the next 60 minutes of weather.
  • A color-coded key below the dial indicates the type and intensity of upcoming precipitation.
  • Tap the center of the dial to view a detailed minute-by-minute forecast for the next four hours.

Back to FAQs

Q. Why do temperatures sometimes differ between parts of the app?

You may occasionally notice small differences in temperature readings when comparing what’s shown in widgets, Home screen location tiles, Persistent Notifications, or other areas of the app. These variations are typically due to slightly different update times across features.

The Today screen always displays the latest available data and is the most reliable source for current conditions.

AccuWeather continuously works to improve the accuracy and consistency across all parts of the app experience.

Back to FAQs

Q: What is the AccuWeather RealFeel® Temperature and is that different from the standard temperature?

Yes, the AccuWeather RealFeel® Temperature is different from the standard temperature. While the temperature shows the actual temperature of the air, RealFeel is an exclusive AccuWeather feature that factors in many different parameters, including humidity, wind, cloud cover, and sun intensity to show how it actually feels outside.

You can find the RealFeel value just below the main temperature reading in the MinuteCast® dial and in other forecast views throughout the app and website.

It’s a helpful tool for planning your day—whether you’re heading out for a walk or braving extreme weather.

To learn more about the meaning and impact of AccuWeather’s RealFeel Temperature, see: AccuWeather RealFeel® Temperature Guide

Back to FAQs

Q: What is the RealFeel Shade™?

Similar to RealFeel®, the RealFeel Shade™ tells you what the temperature feels like in a shaded area. It factors in elements like wind, humidity, and sun angle to help you better understand comfort levels when you’re out of direct sunlight. It is great for planning time in shaded areas like parks, porches, or outdoor cafes.

Back to FAQs

Q. Where can I find the UV Index?

You can find the UV Index in several places:

  • Website: On the Hourly page, click an individual hour to view detailed conditions, including the UV Index.
  • App (Android & iOS):
    • On the Today screen, expand More Current Conditions to see the UV Index.
    • On the Hourly screen, tap any hour to open a detailed view that includes the UV Index and other key data.

See also: What is the difference between UV Index and Max UV Index?

Back to FAQs

Q: What is the difference between UV Index and Max UV Index?

The UV Index indicates the level of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun at a specific time—typically updated hourly.

The Max UV Index shows the highest UV level expected during the day, usually occurring around midday when the sun is strongest.

  • UV Index = UV level for a given hour
  • Max UV Index = Peak UV level for the entire day

Both values help you understand your sun exposure risk, so you can take appropriate precautions throughout the day.

Back to FAQs

Q: Where can I find humidity?

AccuWeather.com (Website)

You can view humidity in two places:

  • On the Today page: Click More details at the bottom of the Current Weather section
  • On the Hourly page

AccuWeather App (Android & iOS)

Humidity is available in these locations:

  • On the Today screen: Tap More Current Conditions to see full details
  • On the Hourly screen: Tap any hour to view humidity and other weather data

Back to FAQs

Q: How does AccuWeather know the indoor humidity?

The Indoor Humidity shown in AccuWeather is an estimate, not a direct measurement from your device. Since most devices don’t have humidity sensors, AccuWeather uses a calculated model based on:

  • Outdoor weather conditions (like temperature and humidity)
  • Typical indoor climate behavior, not accounting for air conditioning or humidifiers
  • Your location and time of year

This gives you an estimate of indoor conditions. For exact readings, you’ll need a dedicated indoor sensor such as a hygrometer or smart thermostat.

To learn more about how indoor quality can affect your health, see: AccuWeather.com Introduces AccuWeather Indoor Humidity for Better Health, Safety and Comfort

Back to FAQs

Q: What is the AccuLumen Brightness Index™, and how does the scale work?

The AccuLumen Brightness Index™ is a unique feature from AccuWeather that indicates how bright or dim the day will feel. It factors in conditions like sun angle, cloud cover, precipitation, and time of day to give you a quick sense of natural outdoor brightness.

The index uses a scale from 1 to 10, with lower numbers representing very dim conditions and higher numbers indicating very bright days. 

For a full breakdown of the scale, see: AccuWeather Introduces First-Of-Its-Kind Brightness Index

This tool is especially useful for planning outdoor activities, photography, or simply knowing whether to expect a gloomy or sunny day.

Back to FAQs

Q: Where can I find Sunrise, Sunset, Moonrise, and Moonset times?

You can find sunrise and sunset times–as well as moonrise and moonset–on the Today page (website) or Today screen (app) in the Sun & Moon section. These times are based on your selected location.

Back to FAQs

Q: When does a “day” start and end in AccuWeather forecasts?

AccuWeather uses a meteorological day, which runs from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. The night period is considered to be from 9:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. the next morning.

Because of this, the low temperature for “today” often occurs overnight, typically in the early morning hours of the following calendar day. This is why you might see “today’s” low temperature appearing in tomorrow’s early hours in the Hourly Forecast view.

This structure helps provide a more accurate picture of daily weather conditions, especially when planning around daytime vs. overnight temperatures.

Back to FAQs