Some of the most common tasks a virtual assistant helps with include playing music and getting the weathercast (or weather forecast). Because so many people check the weather often, there are numerous apps and add-ons specifically for weather. For example, one add-on called Poncho can deliver daily weather reports via text message or Facebook Messenger. Amazon’s virtual assistant, Alexa, is often called upon to deliver up to date weather information locally or for other locations. Here we will describe some Amazon Alexa hacks to get the best weathercast information, as well as detail the different kinds of weather information that can be gathered through Alexa.
Weathercast
Determining the weather for the day can be done in a number of ways, ranging in technological advancements. Traditionally, weather information was distributed to homes via newspapers that gave a forecast for the next few days. Although many users still rely on newspapers for the weather, it cannot be updated in real time and may not necessarily be accurate.
As technology has advanced, some of the more weather-keen individuals have purchased expensive weather stations to mount on their homes. These stations read and relay real-time weather data like wind speed and relative humidity as well as the weathercast, including rain and cloudiness. Many of these come with a display so users can read both indoor and outdoor metrics.
Those with fewer resources often have a weather app on their phone that displays the weather. Both iPhones and Android devices come with a pre-installed weathercast app. There are also numerous other apps like Storm, Accuweather, and Forecast, which all range in price. While many of the apps relay similar data, the visual display of the app is often an important factor that determines preferences.
Weather on Alexa
While weather can be read from a device or newspaper, many users find they do not have time to stop and check the weather multiple times during the day. The main draw of virtual assistants like Amazon Alexa is their ability to give information and answer questions verbally. Individuals with visual impairments can greatly benefit from these since many weather-based devices do not come with a verbal description of the weather.
Alexa can be asked directly, “What is the forecast tomorrow?” and she will give the weathercast based on the device’s location. Alexa Skills can also be accessed by users that wish to access more detailed weather data. Self-described as the “ultimate weather reference for Amazon Alexa”, Big Sky is the top-rated Alexa Skill for getting the weathercast. Just say, “Alexa, ask Big Sky what the weather will be in three hours” or even, “…what was the weather on November 2nd, 1982?”
People who have a smart home weather system and an Echo device can gather even more weather detail. Certain smart weather stations like the Netatmo Weather Station are set up like an indoor/outdoor weather station, but with an extra component. The weathercast can be accessed via Alexa or the Alexa app in order to learn weather data. Simply say, “Alexa, ask Netatmo what the rainfall was yesterday.” The setup could be beneficial for individuals while traveling or at home.
Alexa Weather
Going back to Alexa Skills, users should note that these add-ons are not always helpful and can even be pointless. Since they are developed by third-party developers and released onto an open market, Skills range greatly in their usefulness. For instance, there is an Alexa Skill called Jeep Man where Alexa will tell users whether or not they should put their Jeep’s top up or down for the day. A similar app called Car Wash will let Alexa tell users whether or not they should get a carwash. Obviously, these Skills can be fun for some users or be used as a joke with friends. However, by simply asking for the weather forecast, these questions can be answered quite easily by the user.