Hi there from the Weather Underground API Transition Team.
We’d like to reiterate a few things and let you know of a few small timing changes as we move closer to the previously announced retirement of the Weather Underground API:
Personal Weather Station (PWS) owners/contributors will continue to be eligible for a free replacement API service selected from our standard IBM/Weather Company standard offerings that contain:
You can check out our PWS contributor replacement API documentation here.
If you need higher call volumes, you can still sign up for a paid API subscription plan from The Weather Company. Prices begin at $200/month. To have a representative contact you or to request a demo, please click to fill out the contact form.
Finally, we are humbled by the loyalty you’ve shown us during this difficult transition period. Thank you for your continued support of the Weather Underground community.
With gratitude,
The WU API Transition Team
We’d like to reiterate a few things and let you know of a few small timing changes as we move closer to the previously announced retirement of the Weather Underground API:
- Based on the response to the previous announcement as we neared year end, we have extended the retirement date to February 15, 2019 to allow you more transition time.
- All Weather Underground API keys will stop working on February 15, 2019 unless otherwise agreed upon with Weather Underground.
- All credit card charges for existing Weather Underground API subscriptions will stop on December 26, 2018.
Personal Weather Station (PWS) owners/contributors will continue to be eligible for a free replacement API service selected from our standard IBM/Weather Company standard offerings that contain:
- Current observations from the PWS network
- 5 day daily forecast
- PWS historical data
- PWS lookup by geocode, zip code and location
- Call volume: 1500/day, 30/minute
You can check out our PWS contributor replacement API documentation here.
If you need higher call volumes, you can still sign up for a paid API subscription plan from The Weather Company. Prices begin at $200/month. To have a representative contact you or to request a demo, please click to fill out the contact form.
Finally, we are humbled by the loyalty you’ve shown us during this difficult transition period. Thank you for your continued support of the Weather Underground community.
With gratitude,
The WU API Transition Team
Tim Roche, Official Rep
Posted 2 months ago
Hi,
thanks for the update.
I do not have a PWS but am thinking of getting one. Will it be possible to get the same terms as people who already have a PWS or not?
thanks for the update.
I do not have a PWS but am thinking of getting one. Will it be possible to get the same terms as people who already have a PWS or not?
Victoria Gardner, Official Rep
Yes. The new API, when it is available, will be available to everyone who is uploading data from their PWS.
I do not know exactly when new keys will be available yet.
Victoria Gardner
victoria.gardner@ibm.com
I do not know exactly when new keys will be available yet.
Victoria Gardner
victoria.gardner@ibm.com
(Edited)
I am not (as of a few hours ago) getting any information such as 10 Day, 3 Day, or hourly forecast using my old API. Please tell me they have not cut the old APIs off without rollingout the new ones.
(Edited)
And its working again. Whew.
Victoria Gardner, Official Rep
Thank you very much for all your work. I realize that you have a difficult task.
Victoria Gardner, Official Rep
Nothing you experience should be related to any planned outages, so do feel free to contact me directly if there seems to be a problem.
--Victoria
--Victoria
Hi, I’m also a long time PWS contributer and API key personal user, but haven’t been contacted about transitioning to the new key and API yet andI don’t want to be left out of the transition. My current station is KTXPASAD21 and my WU account’s email is up to date too. Thanks.
Victoria Gardner, Official Rep
Hi Wayne.
If you want to transition to a paid data subscription, you should investigate the options and fill out the form on this page: http://biz.weather.com/WU-Data-API_Data-Package-Demo-Request.html.
The post you're commenting on is the most up-to-date information on the transition to the API for PWS owner/uploaders.
If you would like to get added to my email list for PWS owners, email me your PWS id, and your API key, and I will send you information as it becomes available. But it will fundamentally be the same information found on this Forum.
Victoria Gardner
victoria.gardner@ibm.com
If you want to transition to a paid data subscription, you should investigate the options and fill out the form on this page: http://biz.weather.com/WU-Data-API_Data-Package-Demo-Request.html.
The post you're commenting on is the most up-to-date information on the transition to the API for PWS owner/uploaders.
If you would like to get added to my email list for PWS owners, email me your PWS id, and your API key, and I will send you information as it becomes available. But it will fundamentally be the same information found on this Forum.
Victoria Gardner
victoria.gardner@ibm.com
This was posted a few days ago. This is what you will have.
- Current observations from the PWS network
- 5 day daily forecast
- PWS historical data
- PWS lookup by geocode, zip code and location
- Call volume: 1500/day, 30/minute
Yes, so basically nothing that worths rewriting the whole code for my weather stations and home automation :(
An additional restriction that is less than obvious is no XML. JSON only.
Obviously IBM was not interested in finding out what our use cases were and instead are going to just try to shove something down our throat and expect us to like it. Getting json is worthless to me and will break a lot of stuff unless I re-engineer it.
Victoria Gardner, Official Rep
Igor, I don't understand. The Weather Underground web pages will continue to display 10-day forecasts. The API is separate from the web and mobile pages/apps.
Victoria Gardner
victoria.gardner@ibm.com
Victoria Gardner
victoria.gardner@ibm.com
Victoria, I am the owner of PWS: https://www.wunderground.com/personal-weather-station/dashboard?ID=IPECHORY2&cm_ven=localwx_pwsd... . The message indicates that the weather forecast for weather station owners will now be available only for 5 days. In this connection, the question arose on displaying the weather forecast for 10 days.
Victoria Gardner, Official Rep
The new API for PWS owners will only provide 5-day forecasts without cost. 10-day forecasts are available on the paid API through The Weather Company.
The web pages that you can see on the Weather Underground PWS pages will continue to display the 10-day forecasts.
Does that answer the question? The "program on Android" is what was confusing me.
-Victoria
The web pages that you can see on the Weather Underground PWS pages will continue to display the 10-day forecasts.
Does that answer the question? The "program on Android" is what was confusing me.
-Victoria
Yes, thank you!
where is this new API on your site ?
Victoria Gardner, Official Rep
The new API is not yet open for use.
--Victoria
--Victoria
thank victoria but when will this API be available?
Victoria Gardner, Official Rep
Not yet known, Chepioq.
--Victoria
--Victoria
It is nice to see that slowly there is information available for the new API.
However I still can not see anything about the non-PWS owner low call volume option.
Is there still something like this planned or has that option being abandoned?
My suspicion is that we "free leechers" are being terminated. Afterall a business is there to make money, right?
However I still can not see anything about the non-PWS owner low call volume option.
Is there still something like this planned or has that option being abandoned?
My suspicion is that we "free leechers" are being terminated. Afterall a business is there to make money, right?
Victoria Gardner, Official Rep
As of this moment, we do not anticipate offering free access to the replacement API for anyone except PWS owner/uploaders.
The Weather Company offers limited-time-length trial keys for their paid subscriptions. For more information, see http://biz.weather.com/WU-Data-API_Data-Package-Demo-Request.html
We again thank everyone who has been part of using Weather Underground as the old API comes to an end, and wish everyone the best in their future endeavors.
Victoria Gardner
Victoria.gardner@ibm.com
The Weather Company offers limited-time-length trial keys for their paid subscriptions. For more information, see http://biz.weather.com/WU-Data-API_Data-Package-Demo-Request.html
We again thank everyone who has been part of using Weather Underground as the old API comes to an end, and wish everyone the best in their future endeavors.
Victoria Gardner
Victoria.gardner@ibm.com
The end of service email stated:
For developers who use WU API data for non-commercial purposes, you will have access to a new plan for a personal use, low call volume API. Stay tuned for more details as we build this out.
Where is that information?
For developers who use WU API data for non-commercial purposes, you will have access to a new plan for a personal use, low call volume API. Stay tuned for more details as we build this out.
Where is that information?
Kevin we are all waiting for that info. It's hnot yet available
Victoria Gardner, Official Rep
As of this moment, we do not anticipate offering free access to the replacement API for anyone except PWS owner/uploaders.
The Weather Company offers limited-time-length trial keys for their paid subscriptions. For more information, see http://biz.weather.com/WU-Data-API_Data-Package-Demo-Request.html
We again thank everyone who has been part of using Weather Underground as the old API comes to an end, and wish everyone the best in their future endeavors.
Victoria Gardner
Victoria.gardner@ibm.com
The Weather Company offers limited-time-length trial keys for their paid subscriptions. For more information, see http://biz.weather.com/WU-Data-API_Data-Package-Demo-Request.html
We again thank everyone who has been part of using Weather Underground as the old API comes to an end, and wish everyone the best in their future endeavors.
Victoria Gardner
Victoria.gardner@ibm.com
Hi Victoria
Please forward my displeasure to the relevant person.
It is extremely disappointing that the low volume non-commercial API usage will be withdrawn completely. My requirements are to use less than 10 calls a day for 6 months of the year, so as you can expect I can not justify $200/month on a project that is non profit, diverting funds away from other places. However its not like we weren't prepared to pay something or even asked to - were happy to contribute but not to the extent requested.
The first email failing to be received by seemingly anyone was unfortunate. The announcement at the time stating there will be plans for users exactly like myself, a muck-up. The lack of an email on the update, shows a lack of care.
On the up side, less than 6 weeks until your job goes back to normal levels of support requests - hope they don't turn their back on you too.
I will make other arrangements for data unless someone reaches out to me via email.
James
Please forward my displeasure to the relevant person.
It is extremely disappointing that the low volume non-commercial API usage will be withdrawn completely. My requirements are to use less than 10 calls a day for 6 months of the year, so as you can expect I can not justify $200/month on a project that is non profit, diverting funds away from other places. However its not like we weren't prepared to pay something or even asked to - were happy to contribute but not to the extent requested.
The first email failing to be received by seemingly anyone was unfortunate. The announcement at the time stating there will be plans for users exactly like myself, a muck-up. The lack of an email on the update, shows a lack of care.
On the up side, less than 6 weeks until your job goes back to normal levels of support requests - hope they don't turn their back on you too.
I will make other arrangements for data unless someone reaches out to me via email.
James
(Edited)
Apparently, someone decided developers shouldn't have API access anymore. New products start with the developers. If developers aren't familiar with the API it won't be suggested for new products.
The PWS owners are the source of all the data. However, they will only get 5 day forecast instead of the previous 10 day. There's no hourly forecast. Is this the way people are being thanked for all the PWS data?
As already mentioned, there are plenty of other companies that offer the data for low usage experimentation and development. In particular darksky.net offers 7 day forecast both daily and hourly in a json format. It took very little time to convert my programs and customers to that web site.
When I worked for IBM, people would have been fired if they suggested retiring an existing API before the new API was available and tested.
The PWS owners are the source of all the data. However, they will only get 5 day forecast instead of the previous 10 day. There's no hourly forecast. Is this the way people are being thanked for all the PWS data?
As already mentioned, there are plenty of other companies that offer the data for low usage experimentation and development. In particular darksky.net offers 7 day forecast both daily and hourly in a json format. It took very little time to convert my programs and customers to that web site.
When I worked for IBM, people would have been fired if they suggested retiring an existing API before the new API was available and tested.
I think they are also targeting phones with pressure and temperature sensors.
Qn.
On darksky can one upload their PWS data? Do you know?
Qn.
On darksky can one upload their PWS data? Do you know?
No, they can not. But there are many alternatives.
(Edited)
If you have a PWS an alternative is openweathermap.org.
Well if you like programming OW is (API required to post data in JSON format).
Much easier AWEKAS, CWOP, PWSweather, Weathercloud or staying at WU.
(No API required at any of the services in the line above to post data)
Currently you can still manually download data from your station on WU w/o an api. If you don't collect it by another method.
I can not speak to the future of that feature. Perhaps Victoria Gardner knows.
Much easier AWEKAS, CWOP, PWSweather, Weathercloud or staying at WU.
(No API required at any of the services in the line above to post data)
Currently you can still manually download data from your station on WU w/o an api. If you don't collect it by another method.
I can not speak to the future of that feature. Perhaps Victoria Gardner knows.
Thanks for the response.
Just out of curiosity - are there other websites that would take data that have an API?
I do not have my PWS yet but looking for places where I can share it.
Just out of curiosity - are there other websites that would take data that have an API?
I do not have my PWS yet but looking for places where I can share it.
Not that I am aware of.
Just an info, actual weather station that send data to WU, will continue to work?
Victoria Gardner, Official Rep
Nicolo, if you mean PWS uploading to WU, yes, that will continue to work.
Victoria Gardner
victoria.gardner@ibm.com
Victoria Gardner
victoria.gardner@ibm.com
Thanks, also this type of info will continue to work?
https://api.wunderground.com/weatherstation/WXDailyHistory.asp?ID=KTXGEORG23&format=XML
https://api.wunderground.com/weatherstation/WXDailyHistory.asp?ID=KTXGEORG23&format=XML
Victoria Gardner, Official Rep
No. There will be no access to XML calls in the new PWS API.
Victoria Gardner
victoria.gardner@ibm.com
Victoria Gardner
victoria.gardner@ibm.com
openweathermap.org supports both json and XML and also personal weather stations
(Edited)
The problem is that I've an Aercus PWS that send data only to WU. I'm looking to buy a Davis PWS and say goodbye to WU.
Don't forget the Ambient Weather Weatherbridge (look for it on Amazon) that takes data from any weather station and uploads it to a whole host of weather data providers. You are not stuck with one provider with this device.
Discontinued...HOWEVER...those units were actually meteobridge devices, and if you can follow directions, you can make your own for a $30 hardware investment and a 65 Euro software investment (currently $74.50) and a 1 hr time investment (10 minutes of work and 50 minutes figuring out what to do).
https://wiki.meteobridge.com/wiki/index.php/Home
Edit: It is shown as discontinued on Ambient's site, but it is still offered on Amazon.
https://www.amazon.com/Ambient-Weather-WEATHERBRIDGE-Universal-Compatible/dp/B00FPPYM7M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1547240107&sr=8-1&keywords=WEATHERBRIDGE
https://wiki.meteobridge.com/wiki/index.php/Home
Edit: It is shown as discontinued on Ambient's site, but it is still offered on Amazon.
https://www.amazon.com/Ambient-Weather-WEATHERBRIDGE-Universal-Compatible/dp/B00FPPYM7M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1547240107&sr=8-1&keywords=WEATHERBRIDGE
(Edited)
Or you could buy a https://www.amazon.com/TP-Link-Wireless-Portable-Router-TL-MR3020/dp/B00634PLTW/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&a...
and flash your own for much lower cost following simple flashing from meteobridge.com
and flash your own for much lower cost following simple flashing from meteobridge.com
But, my PWS isnt supported (WS-1001 clone).
I looked at all available data for this new api key transition but cannot find how to get the new api key. Sort of useless messages back and forth saying the same thing over and over. I run a local weather site https://www.nicomaparkwx.com that relies a great deal on my WU feeds and access to my WU api to also retrieve data Ive sent. I see a major re-write to alot of my php and json scripts but can do nothing without the new api key to start the re-write. I see the old fields 14 of them now changed to 27 and a major headache. I only plan on using the free 1500 calls a day which is an improvement over the 500 and 6 min calls.
I have been waiting since Nov of 2017 for info on this changeover and seems everyone daily is asking the same with the same We will let you know when we get more info Its getting old and boring. Feb 15 is a month away and and not alot of time left for us to do the major re-writes to our software..The owner of meteotemplate.com needs to know soon to be able to re-write his software also.
Again... we are asking when will we get a more solid answer. Time is running out.
Andy out...
I have been waiting since Nov of 2017 for info on this changeover and seems everyone daily is asking the same with the same We will let you know when we get more info Its getting old and boring. Feb 15 is a month away and and not alot of time left for us to do the major re-writes to our software..The owner of meteotemplate.com needs to know soon to be able to re-write his software also.
Again... we are asking when will we get a more solid answer. Time is running out.
Andy out...
Same for me, my site http://www.meteomarianocomense.com is based on WU feeds and I need infos to rewrite my code.
Nice site you have and we are in the same boat so to speak. You need to turn on the ability to change language and imperial settings in your upper right corner. I don't remember where that setting is but guessing in the main config file.
Your site is formatted perfectly in mobile view also.
Your site is formatted perfectly in mobile view also.
(Edited)
Hi Andy.
Hello Tom
Our weather site uses a paid WU API key. As soon as we saw the EOS message about 4 months ago, we tried writing to WU support, filling the form at http://biz.weather.com/WU-Data-API_Data-Package-Demo-Request.html and got no response so far. 4 months of silence. It seems that the only source of information about the situation is here in this community. Now it looks like our key will continue to work till Feb 15. No official statements besides the EOS announcement (that has no useful information), no feedback, and a "demo request" form that's not working. Way to go IBM.
Victoria Gardner, Official Rep
Meteobar, contact me directly. I can at least get someone to be in touch with you.
Victoria Gardner
victoria.gardner@ibm.com
Victoria Gardner
victoria.gardner@ibm.com
It wont let me fill out the form since I have no revenue or employee size of 1.
Victoria Gardner, Official Rep
Andy, if you want someone to contact you about paid subscriptions, drop me an email and I will make it happen.
Victoria Gardner
victoria.gardner@ibm.com
Victoria Gardner
victoria.gardner@ibm.com
I do not plan on a paid subscription as I don't generate revenue. I run a free site and no paid ads. Free as in Free. I have been feeding WU for nearly 11 years. Does that count for a free 1500 api key?
Victoria Gardner, Official Rep
Then I don't understand. What contact are you desiring, then? The gateway for the PWS uploaders isn't ready yet; I have not been responding to those notes because I don't have any new information. I hope for news every day, but I know no one wants to hear that.
Am I missing something? I genuinely want to help.
Victoria
Am I missing something? I genuinely want to help.
Victoria
Yes Andy you get a key.
Valid for the nine pieces of data listed in the documentation, and in JSON format only.
You won't be happy.
Tom
Valid for the nine pieces of data listed in the documentation, and in JSON format only.
You won't be happy.
Tom
I know you are Victoria. Just letting off steam as time is running short for some of us to re-write our scripts and trouble shoot. without taking our sites down during the transition.
Question. Will the WU site also be changing in any form also on the 15th of Feb or remain WU as is?
Question. Will the WU site also be changing in any form also on the 15th of Feb or remain WU as is?
Victoria Gardner, Official Rep
I'm not part of the web site team, so I don't have access to that information. However, as someone who has worked on the web for decades, any web site that is not undergoing development is in the process of dying. And since I know there are people working on it, I would have to say that it will change, although whether or not those changes will be noticeable to users is another matter altogether.
Didn't mean that to be a non-answer answer, but there it is.
--Victoria
victoria.gardner@ibm.com
Didn't mean that to be a non-answer answer, but there it is.
--Victoria
victoria.gardner@ibm.com
Understood.
From Windy.com, 21 January 2019: https://community.windy.com/topic/7551/would-you-like-to-report-your-weather-station-data-to-windy/1
@ivo said:Please provide some feedback over on their forum using the above link.
Would you like to report your weather station data to Windy?
Are you owner of personal weather station? Are you maintainer of network of weather stations?
We plan to create API endpoints so you could send your weather station data to us. Please help us to do this project by answering following questions:
1) What type of weather station you have
2) Do you report your data to some other Internet website?
3) How technically do you send your reports to this other website. Which software or protocol do you use.
4) Do you have any tips and ideas, how should our reporting API look like?
5) Would you be willing to offer your station data to anyone else (not only windy.com) as open data?
Victoria Gardner, Official Rep
We're glad to host a place for open discussion about the WU API transition.
We'd like to remind our PWS owners/contributors:
- You'll sign up and get a new API key for the new API
- Once the registration page is open, we'll keep the old API and your old API key active for 2 weeks to allow transition time to your new key
We'll announce in the forum when the registration page opens.
Or, email victoria.gardner@ibm.com to receive an email notification once it's ready.
The documentation for the new API is available here.
Victoria Gardner
victoria.gardner@ibm.com
We'd like to remind our PWS owners/contributors:
- Your past data will always be available to you for viewing and download in a web browser on wunderground.com, just like it always has.
- If you are in the small minority of people who use the WU API and a corresponding WU API key to obtain data in .json format, here's what's happening:
- You'll sign up and get a new API key for the new API
- Once the registration page is open, we'll keep the old API and your old API key active for 2 weeks to allow transition time to your new key
We'll announce in the forum when the registration page opens.
Or, email victoria.gardner@ibm.com to receive an email notification once it's ready.
- The new API will provide access to
- Current observations from the PWS network
- 5 day daily forecast
- PWS historical data
- PWS lookup by geocode, zip code and location
- Call volume: 1500/day, 30/minute
The documentation for the new API is available here.
Victoria Gardner
victoria.gardner@ibm.com
(Edited)
News?
Victoria Gardner, Official Rep
Victoria Gardner, Official Rep
I just sent out an email to the PWS uploaders who asked to be in my email list about the new PWS API.
If you want to be added to the list, please email me with your PWS ID, and your API key(s) if you have any.
Victoria Gardner
victoria.gardner@ibm.com
If you want to be added to the list, please email me with your PWS ID, and your API key(s) if you have any.
Victoria Gardner
victoria.gardner@ibm.com
May i ask why that information is not sent to ALL the PWS uploaders? You already have all the emails and API keys..
Victoria Gardner, Official Rep
Hi, Marko!
Not all PWS uploaders are users of the API. In fact, only a small fraction of PWS uploaders are using the API. Efforts have been made, over and over, to contact all active API users, without paying attention to whether or not they're using PWSs. I have been posting my email address for about 2 months now, telling anyone who sees it they may contact me to be added to the email list. Or just to reach out to me to ask questions. People do, every day.
We ask for email addresses for the API keys, but as someone who can actually look at that data, I know how bad it is. That's why I keep doing it this way, so that I know the email is correct and fresh, and is associated with a working PWS.
I'm happy to add you as well, just drop me a line with your PWS id.
Victoria Gardner
victoria.gardner@ibm.com
Not all PWS uploaders are users of the API. In fact, only a small fraction of PWS uploaders are using the API. Efforts have been made, over and over, to contact all active API users, without paying attention to whether or not they're using PWSs. I have been posting my email address for about 2 months now, telling anyone who sees it they may contact me to be added to the email list. Or just to reach out to me to ask questions. People do, every day.
We ask for email addresses for the API keys, but as someone who can actually look at that data, I know how bad it is. That's why I keep doing it this way, so that I know the email is correct and fresh, and is associated with a working PWS.
I'm happy to add you as well, just drop me a line with your PWS id.
Victoria Gardner
victoria.gardner@ibm.com
Well, since you will stop providing the data i need regardless the feedback, i think im just going to save you that effort..
Im not an expert on this, but I afraid you have a great shit storm on your hands next week with your informing methods :)
Im not an expert on this, but I afraid you have a great shit storm on your hands next week with your informing methods :)
Victoria Gardner, Official Rep
The next week or two will be busy, no doubt about it. But the last several months have been pretty busy, too, so we never know. When people don't respond to emails, or they go to addresses that no one ever looks at, there's not much we can do about it.
I want to take a moment and thank again everyone who has been patiently (and sometimes not so patiently) waiting for the transition. We at WU have so many truly marvelous users. Keep those emails and questions coming!
Victoria Gardner
victoria.gardner@ibm.com
I want to take a moment and thank again everyone who has been patiently (and sometimes not so patiently) waiting for the transition. We at WU have so many truly marvelous users. Keep those emails and questions coming!
Victoria Gardner
victoria.gardner@ibm.com
I have received the email and will be responding shortly.
My concern is two weeks might not be enough to implement the change and test especially if it requires going through several people. For example one of my devices uses software written by someone else and i configure it with my key which I will need to replace. I have other software that I can modify so hopefully I'll be able to use that to make sure my weather data is flowing correctly.
Also what happens if someone happens to be away on travel during this period.
Actually do we need to modify our upload as well? Again I am using someone else's program to upload my data to Wunderground and other website and I'm not sure if the developer is still active.
I think once the API keys are actually available and people can actually test their code changes then you can start a clock to disable the old keys.
My concern is two weeks might not be enough to implement the change and test especially if it requires going through several people. For example one of my devices uses software written by someone else and i configure it with my key which I will need to replace. I have other software that I can modify so hopefully I'll be able to use that to make sure my weather data is flowing correctly.
Also what happens if someone happens to be away on travel during this period.
Actually do we need to modify our upload as well? Again I am using someone else's program to upload my data to Wunderground and other website and I'm not sure if the developer is still active.
I think once the API keys are actually available and people can actually test their code changes then you can start a clock to disable the old keys.
I think they haven't realized the fact that most of the pws users using ther api are not professional coders. It took me about one full year to learn coding, code and debug my heating controller prototype in state it runs 24/7/362 flawlessly :D
As i understand the upload process stays untouched cause otherwice they would loose almost all the pws data :)
As i understand the upload process stays untouched cause otherwice they would loose almost all the pws data :)
Victoria Gardner, Official Rep
Hi, Claude and Marko!
Yes, I do realize that most of the PWS API users -- which is a much different group than the PWS owners as a whole -- may not be professional coders. But this API must go down, and the delays must end.
If the person who wrote the app isn't responding, it won't matter how long we delay. I have spoken with companies who distribute software utilizing the API and I know exactly what's going on. But that doesn't change the fact that the API must go down.
Marko, you are correct -- the upload process from PWS to WU will remain unchanged.
Victoria Gardner
victoria.gardner@ibm.com
Yes, I do realize that most of the PWS API users -- which is a much different group than the PWS owners as a whole -- may not be professional coders. But this API must go down, and the delays must end.
If the person who wrote the app isn't responding, it won't matter how long we delay. I have spoken with companies who distribute software utilizing the API and I know exactly what's going on. But that doesn't change the fact that the API must go down.
Marko, you are correct -- the upload process from PWS to WU will remain unchanged.
Victoria Gardner
victoria.gardner@ibm.com
It doesn't HAVE TO. If that was the case then the upload API would also HAVE TO change.
IBM must think everyone is a idiot.
IBM WANTS FREE DATA thus the upload API won't change.
IBM must think everyone is a idiot.
IBM WANTS FREE DATA thus the upload API won't change.
Victoria Gardner, Official Rep
Believe what you like, Scott. The upload and API are separate systems.
For any PWS owners who have not yet heard:
We'd like to remind our PWS owners/contributors:
Your past data will always be available to you for viewing and download in a web browser on wunderground.com, just like it always has.
If you are in the small minority of people who use the WU API and a corresponding WU API key to obtain data in .json format, here's what's happening:
Or, email victoria.gardner@ibm.com to receive an email notification once it's ready.
The new API will provide access to:
The documentation for the new API is available here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1eKCnKXI9xnoMGRRzOL1xPCBihNV2rOet08qpE_gArAY/edit
Victoria Gardner
Victoria.gardner@ibm.com
For any PWS owners who have not yet heard:
We'd like to remind our PWS owners/contributors:
Your past data will always be available to you for viewing and download in a web browser on wunderground.com, just like it always has.
If you are in the small minority of people who use the WU API and a corresponding WU API key to obtain data in .json format, here's what's happening:
- We'll open a registration page for you to get a new API key to get your data in .json format
- You'll sign up and get a new API key for the new API
- Once the registration page is open, we'll keep the old API and your old API key active for 2 weeks to allow transition time to your new key
Or, email victoria.gardner@ibm.com to receive an email notification once it's ready.
The new API will provide access to:
- Current observations from the PWS network
- 5 day daily forecast
- PWS historical data
- PWS lookup by geocode, zip code and location
- Call volume: 1500/day, 30/minute
The documentation for the new API is available here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1eKCnKXI9xnoMGRRzOL1xPCBihNV2rOet08qpE_gArAY/edit
Victoria Gardner
Victoria.gardner@ibm.com
Scott,
You are absolutely correct,
If all the people who upload data to WU used the API's then things would be very different.
They would be more considerate about what they're doing. But that isn't the case.
They are correct in one aspect, software does change and upgrades are required to keep the products fresh and current. But here is the difference, IBM knows that only a very very small percent of users actually use the API and write programs for their personal and sometimes for professional use. So, it doesn't matter how inconsiderate they are to those who use the API. If they loose every client that uses the API it doesn't matter to them at all. It will have zero effect on the amount of data they receive.
Once you realize that you as an API user doesn't matter to them the better off you will be.
You are absolutely correct,
If all the people who upload data to WU used the API's then things would be very different.
They would be more considerate about what they're doing. But that isn't the case.
They are correct in one aspect, software does change and upgrades are required to keep the products fresh and current. But here is the difference, IBM knows that only a very very small percent of users actually use the API and write programs for their personal and sometimes for professional use. So, it doesn't matter how inconsiderate they are to those who use the API. If they loose every client that uses the API it doesn't matter to them at all. It will have zero effect on the amount of data they receive.
Once you realize that you as an API user doesn't matter to them the better off you will be.
(Edited)
Victoria Gardner, Official Rep
Wow, James, it's awfully clear you don't work here.
I'm working night and day, and weekends too, it seems, trying to help people who use (or want to use) the API. I'm not the only one, either.
Once again, anyone who wants to be on the PWS API email list, just send me your PWS ID. If you have more than one API key, send me the one you want to protect, too. I will respond when you're added, and with any questions.
Victoria Gardner
victoria.gardner@ibm.com
I'm working night and day, and weekends too, it seems, trying to help people who use (or want to use) the API. I'm not the only one, either.
Once again, anyone who wants to be on the PWS API email list, just send me your PWS ID. If you have more than one API key, send me the one you want to protect, too. I will respond when you're added, and with any questions.
Victoria Gardner
victoria.gardner@ibm.com
Victoria explain the reason why IBM chose NOT to keep the same format to download data via the new API ? The 1 single API call.... verses the multi-call the new API will use ?
It just makes no sense to any coder...
BTW I'm no dummy in coding. I have worked on Apache, Bind and the linux kernel.
It just makes no sense to any coder...
BTW I'm no dummy in coding. I have worked on Apache, Bind and the linux kernel.
Victoria Gardner, Official Rep
I wasn't even in the building when The Weather Company's API was designed, Scott. I would never make assumptions about what you know or don't know. Systems architecture is not part of what I do or have ever done.
You have to keep in mind that the new system is utterly separate from the old API.
Once again, anyone who wants to be on the PWS API email list, just send me your PWS ID. If you have more than one API key, send me the one you want to protect, too. I will respond when you're added, and with any questions.
Victoria Gardner
victoria.gardner@ibm.com
You have to keep in mind that the new system is utterly separate from the old API.
Once again, anyone who wants to be on the PWS API email list, just send me your PWS ID. If you have more than one API key, send me the one you want to protect, too. I will respond when you're added, and with any questions.
Victoria Gardner
victoria.gardner@ibm.com
Victoria,
Thank you for keeping us informed.
As for this not making sense to any coder you sir are wrong. I have been writing code for over thirty years and I understand the business decision has made by buying a company and deprecating the purchased company API in favor of the buyers existing API.
Paul
Thank you for keeping us informed.
As for this not making sense to any coder you sir are wrong. I have been writing code for over thirty years and I understand the business decision has made by buying a company and deprecating the purchased company API in favor of the buyers existing API.
Paul
Wrong..... IBM never had an existing API for WU ever.
Logic says if they are keeping the existing upload API logic dictates the same for download from the same existing API which WORKS.
What Victoria refuses to answer is this....
API users will be charged 3 API calls for each segment of data they require from the existing 1 API call. The end results will be to force the users to eventually having to pay the FREE API data they supply to IBM because they will more then likely exhaust their free plan.
Don't pee in my soup and tell me you are warming it up...
Logic says if they are keeping the existing upload API logic dictates the same for download from the same existing API which WORKS.
What Victoria refuses to answer is this....
API users will be charged 3 API calls for each segment of data they require from the existing 1 API call. The end results will be to force the users to eventually having to pay the FREE API data they supply to IBM because they will more then likely exhaust their free plan.
Don't pee in my soup and tell me you are warming it up...
(Edited)
You enforce my point. They do not have have an API to send pws data to them. The do have an API to get forecast data.
Of course the UPLOAD hasn't changed and is free. If that changed, they would get very little data. Since they are now bent on making money off our free data, the API must change and there be a cost associated with it.
Keeping a service running is not inexpensive. You have to pay for electricity, air conditioning, backups, rent, staff, etc. Software does not just keep running forever. Either the cost to keep an old platform running becomes too expensive, or an OS upgrade breaks stuff or domain knowledge is lost as people retire or move on, technology changes, etc.
There are companies that sell devices and/or services that rely on W data which puts a burden on Wunderground. There's quite a few DIY IOT projects that people expect to be able to access for free. Now that W wants to charge that will piss people off but so long as they are willing to waive that for people that upload I'm willing to continue to provide data.
I'm glad to hear that the upload API is not changing at least at this time. I would expect the number of hits per second or minute or what ever time period you want to consider for accessing data far exceeds the number of API calls for uploading so it's not as critical that the upload API be replaced immediately especially if they don't want to risk losing lots of PWS providers.
However when products or API's being deprecated they usually give you a reasonable amount of time to phase over to the new stuff AFTER the replacement has been made available.
Unless I missed something, it sound like as soon as the new API and keys are available we are expected to drop what we are doing and rewrite our code or hope that the developers of any devices or library packages we use will be able to make changes and make it available for us to install and test again within a two week window which we don't know in advance. What happens if we are on vacation or busy with work or family or other commitments or a combination? That's the part that I do not think is reasonable.
There are companies that sell devices and/or services that rely on W data which puts a burden on Wunderground. There's quite a few DIY IOT projects that people expect to be able to access for free. Now that W wants to charge that will piss people off but so long as they are willing to waive that for people that upload I'm willing to continue to provide data.
I'm glad to hear that the upload API is not changing at least at this time. I would expect the number of hits per second or minute or what ever time period you want to consider for accessing data far exceeds the number of API calls for uploading so it's not as critical that the upload API be replaced immediately especially if they don't want to risk losing lots of PWS providers.
However when products or API's being deprecated they usually give you a reasonable amount of time to phase over to the new stuff AFTER the replacement has been made available.
Unless I missed something, it sound like as soon as the new API and keys are available we are expected to drop what we are doing and rewrite our code or hope that the developers of any devices or library packages we use will be able to make changes and make it available for us to install and test again within a two week window which we don't know in advance. What happens if we are on vacation or busy with work or family or other commitments or a combination? That's the part that I do not think is reasonable.
Victoria Gardner, Official Rep
Victoria Gardner, Official Rep
I am still sending updates to PWS users who want to know more about getting an API key on the new system when they become available. If you want to be added to the list, please email me your PWS ID, so I can verify that you will be eligible.
When the gateway is open, I (or one of my colleagues) will also post the information on the Forum, so if you would prefer to check back in this space, that is also an option.
Victoria Gardner
victoria.gardner@ibm.com
When the gateway is open, I (or one of my colleagues) will also post the information on the Forum, so if you would prefer to check back in this space, that is also an option.
Victoria Gardner
victoria.gardner@ibm.com
(Edited)
the least I expected from you (as a respect for station owners who have been providing you with their data for so many years) was to make a list of weather station owners regardless of whether they asked for information or not, and to keep up-to-date with clear conversations and not to look like the asshole in various posts like this post that is so badly made that I get lost whenever I'm looking to find the new information.
I sent you a message as you asked us and the answer and the only one was 2 months ago "that I overcame raindrops and have to check for paid service" ....
after no update, or I am dumb and I did not yet understand or I am entitled to a free key and a clear space with the key information and not the gossip links that you referred to as this https://docs.google.com/document/d/1eKCnKXI9xnoMGRRzOL1xPCBihNV2rOet08qpE_gArAY/ edit
send a shuffle with clear text of the steps you need to follow as a station owner
of course I will interrupt data from my station if you do not send it and of course I do not like the package you offer us
<station_id> IGRESTMA2 </ station_id>
I will wait for your message to ask you some questions about the new key
but the most important ones are
when you say a free 5-day forecast, do you mean that this forecast will only be for one region or will I be able to use the key to make predictions for more than one area?
one-hour forecasts stop;
ten-day forecasts stops;
xml api stops;
The current date for the API to go down is 15 Feb 2019; your key will stop working then?
today is February 17th unless my computer broke down, or unless you gave us a new api and by magic it works.
I expect your answers to my email clear answers.
I sent you a message as you asked us and the answer and the only one was 2 months ago "that I overcame raindrops and have to check for paid service" ....
after no update, or I am dumb and I did not yet understand or I am entitled to a free key and a clear space with the key information and not the gossip links that you referred to as this https://docs.google.com/document/d/1eKCnKXI9xnoMGRRzOL1xPCBihNV2rOet08qpE_gArAY/ edit
send a shuffle with clear text of the steps you need to follow as a station owner
of course I will interrupt data from my station if you do not send it and of course I do not like the package you offer us
<station_id> IGRESTMA2 </ station_id>
I will wait for your message to ask you some questions about the new key
but the most important ones are
when you say a free 5-day forecast, do you mean that this forecast will only be for one region or will I be able to use the key to make predictions for more than one area?
one-hour forecasts stop;
ten-day forecasts stops;
xml api stops;
The current date for the API to go down is 15 Feb 2019; your key will stop working then?
today is February 17th unless my computer broke down, or unless you gave us a new api and by magic it works.
I expect your answers to my email clear answers.
Victoria Gardner, Official Rep
Babis, I don't quite understand. Let me try.
A) The vast majority of all PWS owners do nothing at all with any API. So rather than bothering all PWS owners with something they don't care about, I give people the option to join an email list. It is not the only avenue for information. If you would like to be part of that email stream, please, by all means send me an email!
B) Because of privacy rules, I cannot pluck email addresses from everyone who has ever emailed me. Not everyone who emails me asks about the API in any case.
C) Although I am able to pluck an email address associated with your PWS, I am choosing to require that people email me with it in order that I can be certain I have a good email address. So many of the email addresses in the WU database are useless for communication, and the whole point of this is communication. And again, privacy rules would make putting someone into an email list without their explicit approval questionable.
D) Questions about the new API:
-- The 5-day forecast works by sending it a location. Send it any location you like.
-- Yes, the new, free API will not have access to 10-day forecasts or hourly forecasts.
-- Yes, the new free API will not have XML format available, only JSON.
E) Drop-dead date: Yes, 15 February 2019 EXCEPT for API keys connected to a PWS. Keys have already started being disabled, and will continue to be on the rolling basis. The process is not like turning out the lights, it's a process. But I can assure you that it has begun.
One note of caution: In a few, very rare cases (so far, something like 1-2%) PWS uploaders' API keys are NOT connected to their PWS id. In those case the ONLY way I can be sure your API key is maintained while we are transitioning you to the new API is if I have your information in my protected list. If you want me to check, I will. Just send me an email with your PWS ID and API key. Be sure to tell me if you want to be added to the email list, also, because I get so many emails right now I need explicit instructions about what you are expecting from me. Anyone in my email list who sent me their PWS id and API key, if they were not connected when I checked in the administrative parts of the API, I automatically moved you to my protected list. A few people I have emailed about their keys. So particularly if you're on my email list and have not heard from me about your API key, all is well.
F) The documentation you cited in your note above is not gossip. It is the official documentation for the new API. It includes code examples as well. I'm not clear about why you would call it gossip.
Lastly, the gateway for keys to the new API is not open yet. We hope it will be very very soon. More information on that when it becomes available.
I'm sorry the process is confusing. I'm sorry you are finding it difficult to follow the many threads here. If I have not addressed your concerns, please either post something more here or drop me an email.
Sincerely,
Victoria Gardner
victoria.gardner@ibm.com
A) The vast majority of all PWS owners do nothing at all with any API. So rather than bothering all PWS owners with something they don't care about, I give people the option to join an email list. It is not the only avenue for information. If you would like to be part of that email stream, please, by all means send me an email!
B) Because of privacy rules, I cannot pluck email addresses from everyone who has ever emailed me. Not everyone who emails me asks about the API in any case.
C) Although I am able to pluck an email address associated with your PWS, I am choosing to require that people email me with it in order that I can be certain I have a good email address. So many of the email addresses in the WU database are useless for communication, and the whole point of this is communication. And again, privacy rules would make putting someone into an email list without their explicit approval questionable.
D) Questions about the new API:
-- The 5-day forecast works by sending it a location. Send it any location you like.
-- Yes, the new, free API will not have access to 10-day forecasts or hourly forecasts.
-- Yes, the new free API will not have XML format available, only JSON.
E) Drop-dead date: Yes, 15 February 2019 EXCEPT for API keys connected to a PWS. Keys have already started being disabled, and will continue to be on the rolling basis. The process is not like turning out the lights, it's a process. But I can assure you that it has begun.
One note of caution: In a few, very rare cases (so far, something like 1-2%) PWS uploaders' API keys are NOT connected to their PWS id. In those case the ONLY way I can be sure your API key is maintained while we are transitioning you to the new API is if I have your information in my protected list. If you want me to check, I will. Just send me an email with your PWS ID and API key. Be sure to tell me if you want to be added to the email list, also, because I get so many emails right now I need explicit instructions about what you are expecting from me. Anyone in my email list who sent me their PWS id and API key, if they were not connected when I checked in the administrative parts of the API, I automatically moved you to my protected list. A few people I have emailed about their keys. So particularly if you're on my email list and have not heard from me about your API key, all is well.
F) The documentation you cited in your note above is not gossip. It is the official documentation for the new API. It includes code examples as well. I'm not clear about why you would call it gossip.
Lastly, the gateway for keys to the new API is not open yet. We hope it will be very very soon. More information on that when it becomes available.
I'm sorry the process is confusing. I'm sorry you are finding it difficult to follow the many threads here. If I have not addressed your concerns, please either post something more here or drop me an email.
Sincerely,
Victoria Gardner
victoria.gardner@ibm.com
With all of these API questions...The problem that eats at me is this: why the hell should I upload free data to you so that you can charge others for my data. How about I start charging you for my data then? Doesn't that seem fair?
I had the same concern, but they answered it a good while back. In exchange for my local weather data, they will give me a five day forecast. That seems fair to me.
Except that you can get five day forecast (not just daily but hourly) from a number of other sources, for free, and without giving them your data.
So if you receive no benefit, never check your dashboard, never use a historical chart, never get a forecast for your area or somewhere else, never need the history of your station on 12/25/2006, or even want to check your webcam on 7/4/2010 (or yesterday), then it only makes sense that you stop sending to WU/TWC because you do not use their services at all. I personally enjoy the ability to to do all the above, for free, even without an API, so any API is a plus. I may or may not use it. I have already put alternatives in place, but will I never use WU again? Heck no!! Why would I feel so privileged that WU owes me something? They are a company that by definition MUST make a profit (or fail to exist). I am an individual that, for free, has a place to store and retrieve data from my own PWS. I actually would be very surprised WU/TWC uses PWS data at all (which would make such data worthless).
Sorry if I go against the grain here but I think I have been more than compensated for my data.
Tom
And Mike. You will still be able to get a forecast for your area (or any other area) without using the api or donating data. The issue is the API which allows you to use WU/TWC data on another website automatically by converting the ‘code’ from WU into displayable data over a regular interval.
You will still be able to go to wunderground.com and enter a zip code and get all the forecasts you want.
Sorry if I go against the grain here but I think I have been more than compensated for my data.
Tom
And Mike. You will still be able to get a forecast for your area (or any other area) without using the api or donating data. The issue is the API which allows you to use WU/TWC data on another website automatically by converting the ‘code’ from WU into displayable data over a regular interval.
You will still be able to go to wunderground.com and enter a zip code and get all the forecasts you want.
(Edited)
I personally am not one of those who expect something for nothing; my gripe is more that I am perfectly willing and ready to pay for access to the wunderground data, but IBM do not seem to want my money. It's the same for the Weather Channel data... that is a large **fixed** monthly cost, rather than a **per-use** cost. Again, I'd love to give IBM some money for access to TWC data, but based on what I use, not based on some arbitrary fixed quota that's way too much for my needs. Look at the darksky model. That's what wunderground could have evolved into. But instead the plug has been pulled. I thought there was a law against big dominant companies abusing their power?