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
- Why am I being asked to log in to AccuWeather? What does logging in do?
- How do I log in to AccuWeather for the first time?
- Why can’t I log in with my email and password?
- How do I know if I am logged in?
- What’s the difference between logging in to AccuWeather and logging in to my device’s app store account?
- How do I log out?
- What happens when I log out of AccuWeather?
Membership and Subscription Linking
- What is a Plus membership?
- Do I need to log in to use the paid version of AccuWeather?
- Why do I get more features in the app after logging in, even if I didn’t pay for a subscription?
- Why do I see an email address on the Log Out button?
- Why am I seeing a message that says my subscription is linked to a different account?
Subscription Status and Access
- I have a paid subscription. How do I know if it’s active?
- Am I using the free or paid version of AccuWeather?
- How do I know what kind of subscription I have?
- I’m a paid subscriber but don’t see as many forecast hours or days as before. Why?
- What should I do if my subscription doesn’t seem to be working in the app?
- Why am I no longer being offered a free trial of Premium+?
- Why are weather graphs locked or require watching an ad?
Managing Subscriptions and Devices
Ads, Privacy, and Data Use
- Why are there so many ads placed within the content?
- Why am I seeing full-page ads?
- Why am I seeing ads if I have a paid subscription?
- Why are the ads I see so personalized to my interests?
- What can I do if I see an ad that I think is indecent?
- What are you doing with my data, including location data?
- How can I request access to or deletion of my personal data?
- I deleted your app. What information do you still have about me?
- Does AccuWeather sell user information to third parties?
Features
Location Management
- What’s the difference between Default Location, Current Location, Favorite Location, and other location types?
- How do I add, save, or delete a location?
- Why isn’t my location or temperature updating correctly in the app, widget, or Status Bar?
- Why am I receiving so many notifications or alerts for locations that aren’t my current location?
- Why is MinuteCast® not showing for my location?
- Why is my address showing up in MinuteCast®?
- Why do I keep seeing a Hurricane icon in the app but there are no tropical storms near me?
Radar & Maps
Notifications, Alerts, and Status Bar
Persistent Notification & Status Bar (Android only)
- How do I add the temperature to the Status Bar on Android?
- Why isn’t my Status Bar temperature or Persistent Notification updating correctly?
- Why did my Persistent Notification or Status Bar temperature icon disappear?
- Why do I see a sun icon instead of the temperature icon in my Status Bar?
- Are Persistent Notifications available for free?
Widgets (Mobile App)
- Why is my widget missing?
- Why is my widget blank?
- Why does my widget say “Can’t show content”?
- Why does my widget change colors?
- Why doesn’t my widget display correctly when I resize it?
- Why isn’t my widget showing the correct temperature or location?
- Does the app offer lock screen widgets?
- Why don’t lock screen widgets turn red or let me tap alert icons during severe weather?
Sun & Moon
- Where can I find sunrise, sunset, moonrise, and moonset times?
- In the app, why don’t I see the sun or moon icon on the arc?
- In the app, why does the moon arc appear empty even though the moon is still visible in the sky?
- Why are there no sunrise, sunset, moonrise, or moonset times listed for my location?
- In the app, why does the Sun & Moon section look different for future days on the Daily screen?
Today Screen (Mobile App)
AccuWeather Exclusive Features
- Does the MinuteCast® wheel turn, or is it stationary? How do I read it?
- What is the RealFeel® and is that different from the temperature?
- What is the RealFeel Shade™?
- How does AccuWeather know the indoor humidity?
- What is the AccuLumen Brightness Index™, and how does the scale work?
- Where can I find the AccuLumen Brightness Index™?
- Why can’t I find the MinuteCast® option?
Settings and Display
Display and Appearance
- Why does the text in the app look smaller in the latest version?
- How do I change to dark mode?
- What happens when I choose System as my Display Mode?
- In the app, can I turn off the Weather Centers on the Home screen?
- Why does the app open to a different screen than I expected?
- Why don’t I see the Help link or the “Need Help?” button in the Menu?
Units and Settings
Reading Your Forecast
- When does a “day” start and end in AccuWeather forecasts?
- Why do temperatures sometimes differ between parts of the app?
- What does “Trace” mean for snowfall or ice amounts?
- Why doesn’t the Record Low match the selected day?
- Why are weather graphs locked or require watching an ad?
- Where can I find the UV Index?
- What is the difference between UV Index and Max UV Index?
- Where can I find humidity?
AI Assistants and Integrations
Removed or Changed Features
Accounts, Subscriptions, and Access
Covers login, subscription benefits, and related user and device access options.
Logging In
Logging in and out, creating an account, and what to do if you can’t access yours.
Q: Why am I being asked to log in to AccuWeather? What does logging in do?
A: Logging in to the AccuWeather website and app are optional—you can use all of AccuWeather’s core features without creating an AccuWeather account. However, logging in is free and can unlock extra features depending on your product and platform.
You can log in using an existing Google or Apple account, or by registering with a different email address. The first time you log in, an AccuWeather account is automatically created for you. Once you’re logged in, the Account icon at the top of the screen will appear as a filled-in shape.
AccuWeather.com (Website): Premium+ (Premium Plus) subscribers will see certain subscription benefits—such as exclusive AccuWeather Alerts™, longer-range forecasts, and fewer ads—when logged in to the website.
AccuWeather App (Android & iOS): Logging in to the AccuWeather App automatically makes you a Plus member, which unlocks extra features such as longer forecasts and additional saved locations.
Note: If you have a paid version of the app, your subscription automatically links to the AccuWeather account you use the first time you log in to the app. To access your subscription benefits on other devices—including across iOS and Android—make sure to log in to the AccuWeather App using that same AccuWeather account each time. The email you use for your app store account (Google Play or Apple ID) and your AccuWeather account don’t need to match.
Q: How do I log in to AccuWeather for the first time?
A: There are several points where you may be prompted to log in:
- During the initial app setup
- As part of the Premium+ (Premium Plus) subscription purchase flow
- Anytime by tapping the empty Account icon in the top-right corner of the screen
From the Sign Up or Create Your Account screen, choose one of the following options:
- Continue with Google → Use a Google identity already recognized by your Android device (no separate registration required).
- Continue with Apple → Use an Apple identity already recognized by your iOS device (no separate registration required).
- Sign Up with Email → Enter an email address and create a password to register with AccuWeather.
Follow the prompts to complete setup. Once logged in, the Account icon changes from an outline to a solid shape.
Note: If you have a paid app subscription, the first time you log in to the AccuWeather App, your subscription automatically links to that account. Use that same AccuWeather account on any other device to access your subscription benefits—even across different operating systems. The email you use for your app store account and your AccuWeather account don’t need to match.
Q: Why can’t I log in with my email and password?
A: If you already have an AccuWeather account and are using a manually entered email and password (instead of Google or Apple), make sure you are signing in from the correct screen.
If you enter your email and password on a Sign Up screen (such as Sign Up for Plus, Sign Up for AccuWeather, or Sign Up for Premium+) and your account already exists, the app will display an error.
To access your existing account:
- Tap the Log in link at the bottom of any Sign Up screen
- This will take you to the Welcome screen
- Enter your email and password there to sign in
Note: This applies only to manually entered email/password logins. Google and Apple login options will work from either screen.
Q: How do I know if I am logged in?
A: 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.
Q: What’s the difference between logging in to AccuWeather and logging in to my device’s app store account?
A: Logging in to AccuWeather means signing in to the website or app with your AccuWeather account. This gives you access to certain features, like longer forecasts. If you have a paid subscription, your AccuWeather account also manages where and how your subscription benefits appear across your devices.
Logging in to your device’s app store account (Google Play or Apple ID) is what initially validates your paid app purchase or subscription on that operating system. Once your subscription is linked to your AccuWeather account, that same AccuWeather account can be used on other devices—even on different operating systems—to access your paid benefits.
Note: If you have a paid version of the app, your subscription automatically links to the AccuWeather account you use the first time you log in to the app. To access your subscription benefits on other devices—including across iOS and Android—make sure to log in to the AccuWeather App using that same AccuWeather account each time. The email you use for your app store account and your AccuWeather account don’t need to match.
Q: How do I log out?
A: To log out of AccuWeather:
- Select the Account icon in the top-right corner of your screen.
- Select Log Out.
To understand what changes after logging out, see What happens when I log out of AccuWeather?
Q: What happens when I log out of AccuWeather?
A: What you see after logging out depends on whether you are using the website or the app, whether you are on the free version of AccuWeather or have a paid subscription, and—if you are using the app with a paid plan—whether you are on the same operating system or a different one.
Website
- You will see fewer forecast days and hours.
- Premium+ subscribers will also lose access to fewer ads and AccuWeather Alerts™.
App
Free users, and Premium or Platinum subscribers
- You will see fewer forecast days and hours.
- Your extra saved locations will no longer appear on the Home screen.
You won’t receive alerts or notifications for those locations until you log back in.
Note: Your saved locations and alerts are not lost—they’ll automatically return once you log back in.
Paid subscription on same operating system
If you’re using a device with the same operating system (for example, you purchased on iOS and are using another iOS device), your paid subscription may still be recognized through your app store account (Google Play or Apple ID), even while logged out.
Paid subscription on different operating system
However, if you’re using a device with a different operating system (for example, you purchased on Android but are now using iOS), logging out will also cause your subscription benefits—including your ad-free experience—to disappear.
To restore your benefits, simply log back in to the app using the same AccuWeather account that’s linked to your subscription.
Membership and Subscription Linking
Plus memberships, and how your AccuWeather account relates to your subscription.
Q: What is a Plus membership?
A: A Plus membership is not the same as a Premium+ (Premium Plus) subscription. (Tip: If you have a paid subscription and are looking for information about your benefits, see How do I know what kind of subscription I have?)
A Plus membership is an enhanced experience available primarily in the AccuWeather App. On the app, it provides access to additional saved locations and extended hourly and daily forecasts—at no extra cost.
You become a Plus member when you log in to the website or app. However, the main benefits of your Plus membership remain in the app:
- Plus members (logged in users) on the app can save more locations and see a longer range of forecast details.
- Non-Plus (logged-out) users on the app still have access to all core app features, but with fewer saved locations and a shorter forecast range.
Note: If you’ve previously logged in on the app and added extra saved locations as a Plus member, those most recently added locations will not appear on the Home screen after you log out. You also won’t receive alerts or notifications for those locations while logged out. Your locations and alerts are not lost—they’ll automatically return once you log in to the app again.
If you previously subscribed to Premium or Platinum, you’re now recognized as a Plus member when you log in to the website or app—no additional payment needed.
Note: If you are a Premium+ subscriber, your paid benefits are automatically applied within the website and app. However, to access your benefits on another device, log in to the AccuWeather App using your AccuWeather account. This links your subscription benefits across platforms.
Q: Do I need to log in to use the paid version of AccuWeather?
A: You can use the paid version of AccuWeather without logging in.
However, signing in to AccuWeather with your AccuWeather account links your subscription to your account and ensures your benefits appear correctly across devices and operating systems. Logging in to the app also automatically makes you a Plus member, giving you access to extended forecasts and more saved locations.
To learn how to use your subscription on multiple devices—or across different operating systems—see Can I use my subscription on more than one device?
Q: Why do I get more features in the app after logging in, even if I didn’t pay for a subscription?
A: When you log in to the free AccuWeather App, you’re automatically recognized as a Plus member. This unlocks extra features—such as extended forecasts and more saved locations—even if you don’t have a paid subscription.
Q: Why do I see an email address on the Log Out button?
A: The Log Out button appears at the bottom of the Account menu after you’ve successfully signed in. The email address shown on the button indicates which AccuWeather account you’re currently logged in with, helping you confirm that you’re using the correct account.
In some cases, multiple AccuWeather accounts may be associated with the same email address. If you’re experiencing issues accessing your account or subscription benefits, contact our support team at support@accuweather.com for assistance.
Q: Why am I seeing a message that says my subscription is linked to a different account?
A: This message appears when you have a paid subscription and log in to the AccuWeather App with an email address that’s different from the one you first used to log in to the app.
The first time you log in to the app, your paid subscription automatically links to that AccuWeather account. That AccuWeather account becomes the one associated with your subscription benefits.
If you later log in on a different device or operating system using the associated AccuWeather account, the app on that device will recognize your paid subscription because it’s linked to your original account.
To log in using the AccuWeather account associated with your subscription benefits:
- On the message that appears in the app, tap Log out.
- Tap the empty Account icon, then sign back in using the AccuWeather account you used the first time you logged in to the app.
- Your paid features and benefits will reappear automatically, no matter which device or operating system you use.
If you don’t remember which AccuWeather account you used first, contact our support team at support@accuweather.com for help identifying and restoring access to your linked subscription.
Tip: Your AccuWeather account email doesn’t have to match the email you use for your app store account (Google Play or Apple ID). What matters is using the same AccuWeather account each time you log in so your subscription stays linked across devices and operating systems.
Subscription Status and Access
Verifying paid access, identifying what version you’re using, and what features come with it.
Q: I have a paid subscription. How do I know if it’s active?
A: AccuWeather.com (Website):
After logging in with your AccuWeather account, Premium+ (Premium Plus) subscribers will see a “You’re a Premium+ Member!” message at the top of the Account menu. (To open the menu, click the Account icon at the top of the page.)
You may also notice some Premium+ features—such as enhanced AccuWeather Alerts™, extended forecast days, and fewer ads—while browsing the website. Most Premium+ benefits, however, are still experienced primarily in the AccuWeather App.
AccuWeather App (Android & iOS):
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, Premium+ 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, see What should I do if my subscription doesn’t seem to be working in the app?
Q: Am I using the free or paid version of AccuWeather?
A: AccuWeather.com (Website): After logging in with your AccuWeather account, Premium+ (Premium Plus) subscribers will see a “You’re a Premium+ Member!” message at the top of the Account menu. (To open the menu, click the Account icon at the top of the page.)
AccuWeather App (Android & iOS):
- 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.
If you have a paid version and want to know which subscription tier you have, see How do I know what kind of subscription I have?
Q: How do I know what kind of subscription I have?
A: Premium+ (Premium Plus)
- Premium+ is our highest-tier subscription.
- It provides our best ad-free experience in the app and a reduced ad experience on the website.
- It is available with monthly or yearly payments and includes:
- Exclusive map layers (in the app)
- Enhanced AccuWeather Alerts™
- The longest available forecast data
- How to tell if you have Premium+:
- AccuWeather.com (Website): If you are logged in with your AccuWeather account, see fewer ads, and the top of the Account menu says “You’re a Premium+ Member!”, then you have Premium+. (Website login reflects your Premium+ status, but most Premium+ features remain in the app.)
- AccuWeather App (Android & iOS): If you don’t see ads and the top of the Menu says “You’re a Premium+ Member!”, you have Premium+.
Premium
- Premium is a legacy subscription that provides an ad-free experience in the AccuWeather App, available with monthly or yearly payments.
Note: Premium is no longer offered for new purchase, but existing subscriptions are still supported. - How to tell if you have Premium:
- AccuWeather.com (website): If you are logged in with your AccuWeather account and the Account menu shows an offer to upgrade to Premium+, you might have a Premium subscription.
- AccuWeather app (Android & iOS): If you don’t see ads in the app and you see an offer to upgrade to Premium+, you might have a Premium subscription.
Platinum
- Platinum is a legacy, one-time purchase that provides lifetime ad-free access in the AccuWeather App.
Note: Platinum is no longer offered for new purchase, but existing Platinum subscriptions are still supported. - How to tell if you have Platinum:
- AccuWeather.com (website): If you paid once and, when logged in with your AccuWeather account, the Account menu shows an offer to upgrade to Premium+, you might have a Platinum subscription.
- AccuWeather app (Android & iOS): If you paid once, don’t see ads in the app, and you see an offer to upgrade to Premium+, you might have a Platinum subscription.
Seeing ads unexpectedly? See What should I do if my subscription doesn’t seem to be working in the app?
Q: I’m a paid subscriber but don’t see as many forecast hours or days as before. Why?
A: Some Premium and Platinum features—like extended hourly and daily forecasts—are now a part of our free Plus membership and are only available when you’re logged in with your AccuWeather account. Once you’re logged in, your full forecast range will appear automatically.
If you’re a Premium+ (Premium Plus) subscriber and still aren’t seeing the full forecast range, contact our support team at support@accuweather.com for assistance.
Q: What should I do if my subscription doesn’t seem to be working in the app?
A: If your subscription access didn’t transfer after an app update—or if you’re seeing ads when you expected not to—it usually means the app isn’t currently recognizing your subscription on that device. This can happen for two reasons, depending on the type of device you’re using:
- If you’re using a device with the same operating system as the one where you made your purchase:
Make sure you’re signed in to your device with the same app store account (Google Play or Apple ID) you used to purchase the subscription.
If you’ve logged in to the AccuWeather App before, also log in using the same AccuWeather account you used the first time you logged in to the app. - If you’re using a device with a different operating system (for example, you purchased on iOS but are now using Android):
Make sure you have an AccuWeather account that’s linked to your original purchase. Then log in to the app using that same AccuWeather account to access your benefits.
If you’ve tried these steps and your subscription still isn’t working, try the following additional actions:
- Close and restart the AccuWeather app.
- Uninstall and reinstall the AccuWeather app.
If you’re still experiencing issues after following all of the above steps, contact our support team at support@accuweather.com for further assistance.
Q: Why am I no longer being offered a free trial of Premium+?
A: A free trial may not always be available. Eligibility can vary based on factors like your account status, previous trial usage, or current promotions. If a free trial isn’t shown, you can still subscribe to Premium+ at any time to access all features.
Managing Subscriptions and Devices
Device changes, multi-device usage, and canceling subscription.
Q: Can I use my subscription on more than one device?
A: Yes—you can use your subscription on multiple devices. The steps depend on whether you’re using a device with the same operating system (OS) as your original purchase, or a different one.
If you’re using another device with the same operating system (for example, two iPhones or two Android devices):
- If you haven’t logged in to the AccuWeather App before:
- Make sure you’re signed in to the device with the same app store account (Google Play or Apple ID) you used to purchase your subscription.
- Log in to the AccuWeather App. This creates an AccuWeather account that automatically links to your subscription. (See also: How do I log in to the app for the first time?)
- If you have logged in to the AccuWeather App before:
Log in using the same AccuWeather account that’s already linked to your subscription.
Your subscription benefits—such as an ad-free experience—and your Plus member features—like longer forecasts and more saved locations—should appear automatically on the new device once you’re signed in correctly.
If you’re using a device with a different operating system (for example, you purchased on iOS but are now using Android):
- Make sure you have an AccuWeather account that’s linked to your original subscription.
- On the new device, log in to the AccuWeather app using that same AccuWeather account email to access your paid benefits.
Logging in with your AccuWeather account lets you access your subscription benefits—such as an ad-free experience—and your Plus member features—like longer forecasts and more saved locations—across platforms, so you can enjoy the same experience on both iOS and Android.
Q: What happens to my subscription if I get a new phone or tablet?
A: To keep your subscription benefits, install the app on your new device and then follow the steps in Can I use my subscription on more than one device?
Q: Can I cancel my subscription?
A: Yes. How you cancel depends on where you purchased your subscription.
- If you subscribed in the app: Subscriptions are managed through your device’s app store account:
- iOS: Open the Apple App Store, then go to Apple ID › Subscriptions
- Android: Open the Google Play Store, then go to Account › Subscriptions
Note: Logging into the AccuWeather App is not required for cancellation in this scenario.
- If you subscribed on the website: You can manage and cancel your subscription by logging in to your AccuWeather account on AccuWeather.com, then selecting Manage Your Benefits from the menu below the Account icon.
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.
Q: How do I remove the app from my device?
A: 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.
Platform Compatibility and Setup
Supported platforms and device-specific features.
Q: Will the app work on my Smartwatch?
A: Yes, the AccuWeather App is fully supported on both watchOS (Apple Watch) and Wear OS (Android smartwatch). To use the smartwatch app, you must have the AccuWeather mobile app installed on your iPhone (via the Apple App Store) or Android device (via the Google Play Store).
The watchOS and Wear OS apps sync with your mobile app to provide convenient access to key weather information, including:
- Current location updates (when location permissions are enabled)
- The ability to search for and view your favorite locations directly on your smartwatch
- Favorites saved on your smartwatch will also appear in the mobile app
- Expanded weather views, including Current Conditions, Hourly, and Daily forecasts
Q: Can I use the app in landscape mode on my phone or tablet?
A: Mobile Phones: No. The app is restricted to vertical (portrait) mode on mobile phones. This intentional design avoids layout complications on smaller screens and ensures a more consistent, reliable viewing experience.
Tablets: 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
Q: Do I have to enable location permissions to use AccuWeather?
A: 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.
Q: How do I find the version number of the AccuWeather App?
A: To check which version of the app you’re using:
- Tap the Menu icon (three horizontal lines in the top-right corner).
- 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.
Ads, Privacy, and Data Use
FAQs related to advertising, personalization, and how user data is handled.
Q: Why are there so many ads placed within the content?
A: AccuWeather relies on advertising to keep our weather services free for all users. We do this using embedded ads.
Want no ads in the app and fewer ads on the website? Upgrade to Premium+ (Premium Plus) for our best ad-reduced experience across devices.
Q: Why am I seeing full-page ads?
A: 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.
Want no ads in the app and fewer ads on the website? Upgrade to Premium+ (Premium Plus) for our best ad-reduced experience across devices.
Q: Why am I seeing ads if I have a paid subscription?
A: If you have a paid subscription and are still seeing ads, what you experience depends on where you are using AccuWeather and which subscription you have.
On the website (AccuWeather.com)
- Premium+ subscribers:
You may still see ads on the website, but at a reduced level when logged in with the AccuWeather account linked to your subscription. - Legacy Premium or Platinum subscribers:
These subscriptions do not reduce ads on the website. Seeing ads on AccuWeather.com is expected, even when logged in.
In the app
If you are seeing ads in the app when you did not expect to, it usually means the app is not currently recognizing your subscription on that device. See also What should I do if my subscription doesn’t seem to be working in the app?
Q: Why are the ads I see so personalized to my interests?
A: 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.
How to manage your Targeted Advertising settings
(Availability depends on local regulations in your region.)
From the AccuWeather App:
- Tap the Menu icon (three horizontal lines in the top-right corner).
- Select Settings.
- Tap Privacy Settings.
- From the top menu, select Purposes.
From the website:
- Scroll to the bottom of the page.
- In the footer, click About Your Privacy.
- From the top menu, select Purposes.
Managing the Targeted Advertising toggle
Find the toggle for Targeted Advertising:
- If the toggle is enabled (black text), you can change the setting. The toggle will display either Opted In or Opted Out, and you can tap to switch between them.
- If the toggle is disabled (gray text), the option is locked by regulation in your region. The toggle still displays Opted In or Opted Out, but you cannot change it.
Q: What can I do if I see an ad that I think is indecent?
A: 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:
- Take a screenshot of the ad.
- Include the URL or any relevant information.
- Email it to support@accuweather.com.
Our team will investigate the issue thoroughly and take appropriate action.
Q: What are you doing with my data, including location data?
A: 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.
Q: How can I request access to or deletion of my personal data?
A: You can manage data requests through the Privacy Center.
How to manage your Requests settings
From the AccuWeather App:
- Tap the Menu icon (three horizontal lines in the top-right corner).
- Select Settings.
- Tap Privacy Settings.
- From the top menu, select Requests.
From the website:
- Scroll to the bottom of the page.
- In the footer, click About Your Privacy.
- From the top menu, select Requests.
Submitting a Request
- Choose one of the options available for your region. This might include:
- Access Your Data to request a copy of the information AccuWeather has collected.
- Delete Your Data to request its removal.
- Complete the on-screen form with your name, email, and state or country of residency.
Requests are processed in compliance with regional privacy laws. AccuWeather representatives typically respond within 30-45 days, though processing times may vary depending on your region and the type of request. See our Privacy Policy for full details.
Q: I deleted your app. What information do you still have about me?
A: 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.
Q: Does AccuWeather sell user information to third parties?
A: 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.
Features
Find answers about the app and website’s core 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?
A: 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.
Q: How do I add, save, or delete a location?
A: 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:
- Tap the Add (+) button on an empty tile.
- Use the Search bar to find a city, address, ZIP code, or point of interest.
- Tap a result to save it as a favorite location.
- To delete a favorite location:
- Next to Your Locations, tap Edit.
- From the My Home screen, tap the Delete icon on the location you want to remove.
- Tap the Back (<) button twice to return to the Home screen.
Note: The current location tile cannot be deleted.
(See also: Do I have to enable location permissions to use AccuWeather?)
- To replace a favorite location:
- On the tile itself, tap the Edit (pencil) icon.
- Use the Search bar to find a new location.
- Select it to replace the existing one.
- To reorder a favorite location:
- Next to Your Locations, tap Edit.
- From the My Home screen, tap the three horizontal lines to the left of the location you want to move, then drag and drop it to a new position in the list.
- Tap the Back (<) button twice to return to the Home screen.
- 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.
- Smartwatch users: If you use AccuWeather on a watchOS or Wear OS device, you can search for locations directly from the smartwatch app and save them as favorites. These favorites will automatically sync with the AccuWeather app on your mobile device.
Q: Why isn’t my location or temperature updating correctly in the app, widget, or Status Bar?
A: If the app is showing the wrong location or temperature—or not updating as expected—this is usually related to device settings, location access, or background refresh behavior rather than an issue with the app itself.
This can affect:
- The Today screen in the app
- Home Screen widgets (iOS and Android)
- Persistent Notifications and the Status Bar temperature icon (Android only)
Why this happens
Your Current Location is determined by your device’s location services (GPS and/or Wi-Fi). If location access is limited or temporarily unavailable, the app may:
- Show a nearby city instead of your exact location
- Use a backup location if your current one cannot be determined
- Appear “stuck” on a previous location or outdated temperature
Widgets and Persistent Notifications may update less frequently than the main app because they rely on your device’s background refresh settings. This is more noticeable when:
- Your Default Location is set to Current Location
- You are traveling or moving between areas
- Location permissions are restricted
- Battery saver or background limits are enabled
How to fix it
1. Refresh the app
Open the AccuWeather app to allow it to update your location and weather data.
- If the app is already open, pull down on the screen to refresh
- This often triggers updates in widgets and (on Android) the Persistent Notification
2. Check your device settings
On Android:
- Location access
- Go to Settings → Location → App location permissions → AccuWeather
- Make sure access is set to “Allow all the time.”
- Battery and background usage
- Make sure AccuWeather is not restricted
- Disable Battery Saver or set the app to Unrestricted if available
On iOS:
- Location Services
- Go to Settings → Privacy & Security → Location Services → AccuWeather
- Set to:
- Always, or
- While Using the App or Widgets (this option appears after adding a widget)
- Background App Refresh
- Go to Settings → General → Background App Refresh
- Ensure it is enabled for AccuWeather
Tip for more consistent results
If you continue to see incorrect or inconsistent location or temperature updates, try setting your Default Location to a specific city instead of using Current Location.
If the issue continues after checking these settings, try restarting your device. If you still need help, contact support@accuweather.com.
Q: Why am I receiving so many notifications and alerts for locations that aren’t my current location?
A: 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 only with a Premium+ (Premium Plus) 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?
Q: Why is MinuteCast® not showing for my location?
A: 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?
Q: Why is my address showing up in MinuteCast®?
A: 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.
Q: Why do I keep seeing a Hurricane icon in the app but there are no tropical storms near me?
A: 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.
Radar & Maps
Learn how to use interactive maps, adjust animation settings, and explore weather layers.
Q: How do I view the radar map?
A: AccuWeather.com (Website)
- Select a location, then click Radar at the top of the screen.
- 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
- Click the play button to view past-to-future radar animation.
- 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)
- Go to the Radar & Maps screen.
- Tap the floating Radar button at the top.
- Then use the map to:
- Zoom – Pinch to zoom in or out
- Pan – Use one finger to drag the map
- View animation – Tap the play button to display past-to-future radar
Tip: Adjust animation speed and timeline in Settings → Radar & Maps - View locations, including:
- Current Location – Pulsing blue pin
- Favorite Locations – Orange star dots
- Selected Location – Green pin
(See also: What’s the difference between Default Location, Current Location, Favorite Location, and other location types?)
- 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?)
Q: How do I view even more maps?
A: AccuWeather.com (Website)
- Select a location, then click Radar at the top of the screen.
- Scroll down to the More Maps section to view suggested options like Temperature and Clouds.
- After selecting a map, scroll further down to see additional options, such as Wind Flow and 5-Day Precipitation Outlook.
- 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)
- Go to the Radar & Maps screen.
- 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.
- 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.
Q: Why are some maps blank?
A: 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.
Q: How do I know what map I am looking at?
A: 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
Notifications, Alerts, and Status Bar
Manage alert types, notification sounds, and — on Android — the Status Bar display.
Q: How do I manage notifications?
A: 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:
- Make sure notifications are enabled in your browser settings for AccuWeather.com.
- On any AccuWeather.com page, click the menu icon (three horizontal lines in the top-right corner).
- 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. - 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:
- Tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines in the top-right corner).
- Select Settings, then tap Manage Notifications.
- Use the On/Off switches to choose which types of notifications to receive.
- Tap each type to manage notifications per favorite location.
- To turn off a category entirely, toggle off all locations under that type.
- Only your Current Location and Favorite Locations can receive notifications. Add or edit Home screen location tiles as needed.
- 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.
Q: What do the different alert sounds mean in the app?
A: 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.
Q: How do I add the temperature to the Status Bar on Android?
A: 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:
- Tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines in the top-right corner)
- Tap Settings
- Next to Default Location, check which location is listed
- 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?
Q: Why isn’t my Status Bar temperature or Persistent Notification updating correctly?
A: If the temperature or location shown in your Status Bar or Persistent Notification is incorrect or not updating, it is typically due to location access or background update settings.
For troubleshooting steps, see: Why isn’t my location or temperature updating correctly in the app, widget, or Status Bar?
Q: Why did my Persistent Notification or Status Bar temperature icon disappear?
A: If you tap Clear to remove all notifications from your Notification Drawer, the AccuWeather Persistent Notification and Status Bar temperature icon may also be removed.
This is expected behavior on some Android devices.
The Persistent Notification and temperature icon should return automatically after the app refreshes its weather data in the background. You can also open the app to trigger an update more quickly.
Q: Why do I see a sun icon instead of the temperature icon in my Status Bar?
A: A sun icon appears in the Status Bar when there is an active weather or news alert.
On some Android devices, this icon may temporarily replace the temperature icon instead of appearing alongside it.
To restore the temperature icon, open or dismiss the alert notifications individually. Avoid using the Clear button, as this may also temporarily remove the Persistent Notification and Status Bar temperature icon.
See also: Why did my Persistent Notification or Status Bar temperature icon disappear?
Q: Are Persistent Notifications available for free?
A: Yes. Persistent Notifications are available to all Android users, including free users, Legacy (Premium and Platinum) subscribers, and Premium+ subscribers.
- Free users and Legacy subscribers see the current temperature in the Status Bar and a Current Conditions Persistent Notification in the Notification Drawer
- Premium+ subscribers can choose to display RealFeel® Temperature in the Status Bar and select one additional weather detail in the Persistent Notification (one additional detail can be shown at a time)
Widgets (Mobile App)
Set up and manage home and lock screen widgets.
Q: Why is my widget missing?
A: 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.
Q: Why is my widget blank?
A: 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:
- Press and hold the widget to open the menu.
- 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. - Next to Location, select either Follow Me or Default Location.
- In the Search bar, enter the name of your preferred city.
- Select the city to set it as the widget’s location.
This should restore the widget and display the correct weather content.
Q: Why does my widget say “Can’t show content?”
A: Some Android widgets—especially those showing 36 hours of weather—may occasionally display a message such as “Can’t show content” on a white or black background.
This is a known issue, and our team is actively working on a solution.
If the widget doesn’t reset on its own after some time, try the following steps:
- Long-press (touch and hold) the affected widget to open its menu.
- Select Settings.
- Tap Save without making any changes.
- If the issue persists, remove the widget and add it again.
Q: Why does my widget change colors?
A: There are a couple of reasons why your widget background may change colors:
- A red background indicates that there is 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.
Q: Why doesn’t my widget display correctly when I resize it?
A: 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 resolve 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.
Q: Why isn’t my widget showing the correct temperature or location?
A: If your widget is showing an incorrect location or outdated temperature, this is usually related to location permissions or background refresh settings on your device.
For steps to resolve this, see: Why isn’t my location or temperature updating correctly in the app, widget, or Status Bar?
Q: Does the app offer lock screen widgets?
A: 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.
Q: Why don’t lock screen widgets turn red or let me tap alert icons during severe weather?
A: On iOS devices, lock screen widgets do not change background colors when alerts are active, and alert icons on lock screen widgets are not tappable. This is due to system design limitations.
To view full alert details, tap the widget to open the AccuWeather App, then check the alert banner or Alert List on the Today screen.
Home screen widgets may change color during active alerts, but lock screen widgets remain visually consistent within Apple’s lock screen format.
Sun & Moon
Find answers about Sun & Moon icons, arcs, and rise/set times.
Q: Where can I find sunrise, sunset, moonrise, and moonset times?
A: You can find sunrise and sunset times—as well as moonrise and moonset—for today and upcoming days on:
- The Today page (website) or Today screen (mobile app) in the Sun & Moon section
- The individual Day pages on the Daily page (website) or Daily screen (mobile app)
On the Daily page or screen, select a specific day to view detailed information, including sunrise, sunset, moonrise, and moonset times for that date.
All times are based on your selected location.
Q: In the app, why don’t I see the sun or moon icon on the arc?
A: The sun and moon icons appear on their respective arcs only when the sun or moon is above the horizon for the selected location.
During the period between sunset and the next sunrise, the Sun arc remains visible, but no sun icon is shown.
Similarly, during the period between moonset and the next moonrise, the Moon arc remains visible, but no moon icon is shown.
The arc itself continues to represent the progression of daylight or moonlight for the current calendar cycle, even when the icon is not displayed.
Q: In the app, why does the moon arc appear empty even though the moon is still visible in the sky?
A: The Moon position arc styling is based on the current calendar day’s moonrise time.
If you are viewing the app after midnight but before the listed moonrise time for that day, the arc may appear without a moon icon — even if the moon began rising the previous day and has not yet set.
During this window, the section displays the upcoming moonset time only. The moonrise time and total moonlight shown reflect the current calendar day, not the previous night’s rise.
The listed moonrise and moonset times are accurate.
Q: Why are there no sunrise, sunset, moonrise, or moonset times listed for my location?
A: In some situations, a rise or set time may not appear for the selected date.
This can occur when the sun or moon does not cross the horizon during that calendar day — for example, in locations close to the poles, where the sun or moon may remain continuously above or below the horizon for extended periods, or when the moon began rising on the previous day and has not yet set.
Rise and set times are calculated based on the selected location and the current calendar day. When a rise or set event does not occur on that date, no time will be shown.
Q: In the app, why does the Sun & Moon section look different for future days on the Daily screen?
A: For future dates, the individual Day screen displays Sun & Moon details in a simplified text format.
The arc view is available only for the current calendar day because it represents real-time progression through today’s daylight or moonlight cycle.
Today Screen (Mobile App)
Learn how to manage, rearrange, or troubleshoot sections on your Today screen.
Q: Can I rearrange or remove sections on my Today screen?
A: Yes. All users can rearrange most sections on the Today screen.
To change the order:
- Go to Settings > Today > Weather Card Order.
- Press and hold the three horizontal lines next to a section name.
- Drag and drop it into your desired position.
For users without a Premium+ subscription, the MinuteCast® and Current Conditions section is fixed at the top of the Today screen and cannot be moved or removed.
Premium+ subscribers can move this section and can also remove sections to shorten the Today screen. Use the toggle next to a section name to turn it off.
At least one section must remain enabled. If you attempt to turn off all sections, the final remaining section will stay visible.
To restore the original layout, tap the Reload button next to Customized Order at the top of the screen.
Q: Can I move or remove AccuWeather Now on my Today screen?
A: The AccuWeather Now section cannot be moved or removed independently.
AccuWeather Now appears only for users in the United States who do not have a paid subscription. It is associated with the Radar & Maps section and, when displayed, will always appear above it.
If you reposition Radar & Maps on your Today screen, AccuWeather Now will move with it.
AccuWeather Now does not appear for paid subscribers.
Q: Why is my Today screen blank?
A: If you are a Premium+ subscriber, you may have turned off most sections in Settings > Today > Weather Card Order.
At least one section must remain enabled. However, some sections — such as Storm Center or Forecast Highlights — appear only under certain conditions. If the remaining enabled section is not currently active, the Today screen may appear blank.
To resolve this:
- Go to Settings > Today > Weather Card Order.
- Turn on additional sections.
Changes are saved automatically.
Q: Why don’t I see the Storm Center?
A: The Storm Center is a special in-app section that may be enabled on the Home and Today screens during significant severe weather events. It can include curated videos, news stories, and real-time updates related to the storm.
The Storm Center is currently supported only for English-language users and is shown based on the location selected in the app.
AccuWeather Exclusive Features
Learn about AccuWeather’s proprietary features.
Q: Does the MinuteCast® dial turn, or is it stationary? How do I read it?
A: 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.
Q: What is the AccuWeather RealFeel® Temperature and is that different from the standard temperature?
A: 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 accounts for more than a dozen atmospheric factors — 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 is a helpful tool for planning your day, dressing appropriately, and recognizing when outdoor conditions may pose a risk to your health or safety.
To learn more about the meaning and impact of AccuWeather’s RealFeel Temperature, see AccuWeather RealFeel® Temperature Guide
Q: What is the RealFeel Shade™?
A: 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.
Q: How does AccuWeather know the indoor humidity?
A: 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
Q: What is the AccuLumen Brightness Index™, and how does the scale work?
A: 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.
Q: Where can I find the AccuLumen Brightness Index™?
A: AccuWeather.com (Website)
You can find the AccuLumen Brightness Index™ in two locations:
- Today page: Select More Details in the Current Weather section, then scroll down to view the brightness details in the Day section.
- Hourly page: Scroll down to view brightness details for the current hour.
The index is displayed only during daylight hours for the selected location.
AccuWeather App (Android & iOS)
You can find the AccuLumen Brightness Index™ on the Hourly page for each individual hour.
The index is shown only during daylight hours for that specific location.
Q: Why can’t I find the MinuteCast® option?
A: 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:
- Tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines in the top-right corner)
- Select Settings
- Tap Today, then choose Dial
Settings and Display
Customize how AccuWeather looks and behaves, and understand your forecast data.
Display and Appearance
Adjust text size, display mode, and the visual layout of the app.
Q: Why does the text in the app look smaller in the latest version?
A: 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.
Q: How do I change to dark mode?
A: AccuWeather.com (Website)
Dark Mode currently applies only to radar and map views. To change the map style:
- Click the menu icon (three horizontal lines in the top-right corner)
- Select Settings
- Under Map Style, choose either Light or Dark
AccuWeather App (Android & iOS)
- Tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines in the top-right corner)
- 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.
Q: What happens when I choose System as my Display Mode?
A: 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.
Q: In the app, can I turn off the Weather Centers on the Home screen?
A: The Global Weather Center and Storm 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.
Q: Why does the app open to a different screen than I expected?
A: The AccuWeather App may open to different screens depending on how you launched it and your app settings.
Here are the most common reasons:
You opened the app from a widget
If you tap a home screen or lock screen widget, the app will open to the screen associated with that widget.
For example:
- A Today widget opens the Today screen
- An Hourly widget opens the Hourly screen
- An alert icon may open the Alerts list
This behavior is expected and based on the widget you selected.
You opened the app from a push notification
If you tap a weather alert, lightning notification, or news notification, the app will open directly to the related alert or weather details screen instead of your usual starting screen.
Android only: If you tap a Persistent Notification (such as the Current Temperature shown in your Notification Drawer), the app will open to the screen associated with that notification.
Your Default Home setting is set to a different screen
You can choose which screen opens when you launch the app normally.
To check or change this setting:
- Tap the Menu icon (three horizontal lines in the top-right corner).
- Go to Settings > Default Home.
- Select one of the following:
- Today – Opens to your Default Location’s Today screen
- Locations – Opens to the Home screen with your saved location tiles
- Radar & Maps – Opens directly to your Default Location’s Radar & Maps screen
Your selection will apply the next time you open the app.
If the app continues opening somewhere unexpected, make sure you are not launching it from a widget or notification.
Q: Why don’t I see the Help link or the “Need Help?” button in the Menu?
A: In the AccuWeather app, the availability of the Help link and the “Need Help?” chatbot button depends on how support features are currently enabled.
- If the “Need Help?” chatbot is available, it replaces the standard Help link in the Menu.
- If the chatbot is not enabled, you will see the standard Help option instead.
If you need help and do not see either option, you can always visit support.accuweather.com/faq in your web browser for assistance. The chatbot experience is currently available only in the app and is not offered on the website.
Units and Settings
Understand measurement options and troubleshoot settings that aren’t taking effect.
Q: How do I change Fahrenheit to Celsius or vice versa?
A: AccuWeather.com (Website)
To change the temperature units:
- Click the menu icon (three horizontal lines in the top-right corner).
- At the top of the menu, select Settings.
- From the Units menu, select either Imperial (°F) or Metric (°C).
AccuWeather App (Android & iOS)
To change the temperature units:
- Tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines in the top-right corner), then select Settings.
- Tap Units, then choose from:
- Imperial – °F (with mph and in)
(See also: What are Imperial units?) - Metric – °C (with km/h and mm)
- Hybrid – °C (with mph and mm)
(See also: What are Hybrid Units, and how do they work in the app?)
- Imperial – °F (with mph and in)
Q: What are Imperial units?
A: 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.
Q: What are Hybrid Units, and how do they work in the app?
A: 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.
Q: Why aren’t my settings changes taking effect?
A: 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.
Reading Your Forecast
Understand how AccuWeather structures forecast data.
Q: When does a “day” start and end in AccuWeather forecasts?
A: AccuWeather uses a meteorological day, which runs from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. The night period is considered to be from 7:00 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.
Q: Why do temperatures sometimes differ between parts of the app?
A: 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.
Q: What does “Trace” mean for snowfall or ice amounts?
A: “Trace” indicates a very small amount of snowfall or ice accumulation. For snowfall, “Trace” represents amounts between 0.01 and 0.07 inches. For ice accumulation, “Trace” represents amounts less than 0.01 inches. Instead of showing a numeric value, these minimal amounts are displayed as “Trace” anywhere snowfall or ice accumulation is shown in the app.
Q: Why doesn’t the Record Low match the selected day?
A: Record temperature information is available on the History tab when an individual day is selected from the Daily screen. The specific dates for both the Record High and Record Low are also provided so you can see when each record occurred.
While the Record High reflects the selected calendar day, the Record Low may sometimes be tied to the following day since low temperatures often occur overnight or early in the morning. This approach helps ensure the record temperatures reflect the most relevant part of the daily temperature cycle.
Q: Why are weather graphs locked or require watching an ad?
A: Full access to all weather graphs is available only in the AccuWeather App (Android and iOS) and only for Premium+ (Premium Plus) subscribers.
Many weather details—such as Rain Probability, Rain Amount, UV Index, Humidity, Wind, Wind Gusts, Cloud Cover, Visibility, and Dew Point—are available for free as data points on the individual Daily and Hourly forecast pages.
To view one of these details on an interactive graph, go to the Hourly screen, select the Graph tab, and then choose which hourly graph you want to view from the horizontal menu.
Temperature and Air Quality graphs are available for all users. Other graphs—including Rain, Humidity, and UV Index—are available only to Premium+ subscribers.
If you’d like to try out one of these graphs, users without a subscription can tap Watch for Rewards to view a short ad that unlocks an hourly graph for a limited time. Other graphs will remain locked until you choose to watch another ad. This method helps keep the app free to use while still allowing non-subscribed users to explore detailed visual data.
To access all weather graphs without ads, you’ll need to upgrade to a Premium+ subscription.
Q: Where can I find the UV Index?
A: 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.
Q: What is the difference between UV Index and Max UV Index?
A: 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.
Q: Where can I find humidity?
A: 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
AI Assistants and Integrations
Set up and use AccuWeather with supported AI assistants.
Q: How do I set up the AccuWeather connector in Claude?
A: You can connect AccuWeather to Claude to get accurate, real-time weather information within your conversations.
To get started:
- Open Claude and go to Settings > Connectors
- Select Browse Connectors
- Search for and select AccuWeather®
- Select Connect
- Grant the requested permissions
Once connected, you can ask Claude for AccuWeather weather information in natural language, such as current conditions, forecasts, or weather trends for a specific location.
For best results, include “AccuWeather” in your message. For example:
- “AccuWeather, what’s the weather today in Seattle?”
- “Will it rain this weekend, AccuWeather?”
- “What is the AccuWeather hourly forecast for tomorrow?”
Claude will use AccuWeather data to provide relevant weather details based on your request. When applicable, interactive weather widgets may also appear to support the answer, similar to those available in the AccuWeather mobile app.
Q: How do I connect AccuWeather to ChatGPT?
A: You can use AccuWeather with ChatGPT to get accurate, real-time weather information within your chats.
To get started:
- Open ChatGPT and go to Apps
- Find AccuWeather® and select Connect
- Grant the requested permissions
Once connected, reference @AccuWeather® in any message you want to use AccuWeather data:
- In the message field, type @accu
- From the list of available apps, select AccuWeather®
- The message field will update to indicate that AccuWeather® is available for the conversation
- Enter your weather-related question and submit
ChatGPT will use AccuWeather data to provide current conditions, forecasts, and location-based insights. When applicable, interactive weather widgets may also appear to support the answer, similar to those available in the AccuWeather mobile app.
Q: What weather information can I get using AccuWeather® with AI assistants?
A: You can access a range of weather data through the AccuWeather® connector or app, depending on your request, including:
- Current conditions: Temperature, precipitation, and official weather alerts
- Hourly forecasts: Up to 8 hours of detailed hourly weather
- Daily forecasts: Highs, lows, and precipitation for up to 10 days
- Minute-by-minute forecasts: Hyper-local forecasts for the next 60 minutes
- Historical weather: Past conditions and climate data for up to 14 days
When relevant, responses may also include interactive AccuWeather widgets—such as radar maps or MinuteCast®—to help visualize weather conditions and forecasts. Availability may vary based on your location and the AI assistant you’re using.
Removed or Changed Features
Looking for something you used to see? Find out what happened to features that have been renamed, moved, or removed.
Q: What happened to Forecast Highlights?
A: Forecast Highlights is a section on the Today screen that appears only when notable or impactful changes in weather are expected for the selected location.
If no notable changes are expected in the coming days, the Forecast Highlights section will not appear.
Q: What happened to the Forecast Eye Path® map?
A: AccuWeather.com (Website)
The Forecast Eye Path® map, which refers to projected hurricane track, is still available through the Hurricane Tracker page:
- On any page, click the menu icon (three horizontal lines in the top-right corner)
- Under Around the Globe, select Hurricane Tracker
- Under Active Storms, click a storm name
- 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:
- From the Radar & Maps screen, tap All Maps (far-left option in the floating menu)
- Under the Hurricane Center category, select Hurricane Tracker
Q: What happened to the Watches and Warnings map?
A: 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.
Q: What happened to Black mode?
A: 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
Q: Is Weather Display Mode still available?
A: 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.
Q: I used to have 45 days of forecast data, but now I only see 30. What changed?
A: The latest version of the website and app offers new benefits to logged-in users, including extended forecast data.
AccuWeather.com (Website)
By default, the website provides access to:
- 30 days of forecast data on the Daily page
- Today’s hourly forecast data on the Hourly page, plus the next 2 days
- 90 days of forecast data on the Monthly page
After logging in, you are recognized as a Plus member and unlock:
- 45 days of forecast data on the Daily page
- Today’s hourly forecast data on the Hourly page, plus the next 4 days
- 90 days of forecast data on the Monthly page
AccuWeather App (Android & iOS)
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, you are recognized as a Plus member and 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 (in the app), and exclusive map layers (in the app)—by upgrading to Premium+ (Premium Plus).