When you open the Weather app on your iPhone, you’ll see a variety of symbols that tell you what’s happening outside.
These little pictures are designed to give you a quick idea of what to expect when you step out the door.
The app uses 18 different symbols to show you everything from sunny skies to stormy weather.
Once you know what these symbols mean, you’ll be able to plan your day with just a quick look at your phone. Let’s dive in and learn what each of these weather symbols is trying to tell you.
What Do the iPhone Weather Symbols Mean?
Your iPhone uses 18 different symbols to show you everything from bright sunshine to heavy storms.
Once you understand what these symbols mean, you’ll be able to plan your day with just a quick glance at your phone.
To get started, simply open the Weather app and enter a city name, zip code, or airport code. You’ll then see hourly and 10-day forecasts, each with its own weather icon.
Let’s break down what these symbols mean so you can become a pro at reading your iPhone’s weather forecast.
#1 Sunny Days and Clear Skies
When you see a bright yellow sun, it means you can expect a sunny day with clear skies. It’s perfect for outdoor activities, but don’t forget your sunscreen! If you see this sun symbol at night, it indicates clear skies – a great time for stargazing if you’re away from city lights.
#2 Cloudy Conditions
Your app uses different cloud symbols to show how overcast it might be:
- A single cloud partly covering the sun means partly cloudy. You’ll get some sunshine, but there will be cloudy periods too.
- A sun completely hidden behind a cloud indicates mostly cloudy conditions. The sun will peek through occasionally, but clouds will dominate.
- A solid gray cloud without any sun showing means it’s fully overcast. Don’t expect to see much sun on these days.
#3 Rain and Storms
Clouds with raindrops falling from them indicate rain in the forecast. The more raindrops you see, the heavier the rain is likely to be. If there’s a lightning bolt with the rain, that means thunderstorms are expected. It’s best to stay indoors when you see this symbol.
#4 Other Weather Conditions
- Sunrise and sunset are shown with straightforward icons, using arrows to indicate the sun’s direction.
- Hazy conditions are depicted by a sun at the horizon, shrouded by multiple horizontal lines representing layers of particulate matter.
- For snowy weather, distinct icons show the differences between snow and sleet by combining elements.
- Clear nights are represented by a crescent moon with two stars, while a cloudy night shows a moon obscured by a cloud.
By understanding these symbols, you’ll be better prepared for whatever Mother Nature has in store.
Whether you’re planning a picnic or deciding if you need an umbrella, these little icons will help you make better decisions about your day.
Other Apps Use Different Weather Symbols
While we’ve focused on the iPhone’s built-in Weather app, it’s worth noting that you might come across other weather apps with different symbols. But don’t worry – this doesn’t mean you need to learn a whole new set of icons for each app you use.
The good news is that most weather apps use symbols that are pretty easy to understand. They’re designed to be intuitive, so you can quickly get the information you need. Here’s what you can generally expect:
- If you see any kind of raindrop or water symbol, it’s telling you to expect rain.
- Cloud symbols usually mean it’s going to be overcast or partly cloudy.
- Wavy lines often indicate wind.
Some apps even go a step further to make things crystal clear. They might include labels right next to the icons, spelling out exactly what the weather will be like. This way, there’s no guesswork involved – you’ll know exactly what to expect when you step outside.
In Conclusion To
Understanding your iPhone’s weather symbols makes planning your day a breeze. Whether you’re using the built-in Weather app or another one, these icons give you a quick snapshot of what to expect outside.
Remember, rain icons mean grabbing an umbrella, sun peeking through clouds suggests layers might be a good idea, and clear sky symbols mean it’s time for outdoor fun.
The more you use these symbols, the easier they’ll be to interpret. So next time you check your weather app, appreciate how these simple icons help you prepare for whatever the day brings.
FAQ
What do the different weather icons on the iOS Weather app represent?
The iOS Weather app features 18 unique icons that provide quick visual cues about the weather—like sun for clear days, clouds for overcast conditions, and different symbols for various types of precipitation.
How can I find the meaning of a specific weather icon on my iPhone?
Apple has published a helpful chart that explains each weather icon used in the iOS Weather app. This chart can be easily accessed online or sometimes within the app settings or help section.
Do other weather apps use the same icons as the iOS Weather app?
No, other weather apps might use different symbols. Each app has its own design, although many symbols are intuitive and similar across different platforms.
How do I use the iPhone Weather app to check the forecast?
To use the Weather app, enter a city name, zip code, or airport code. Select the location to view detailed hourly forecasts and a 10-day forecast, each displayed with corresponding weather icons.
Can weather icons vary in meaning based on the app?
Yes, while the basic symbols like sun, clouds, and rain are generally consistent, the interpretation of more complex weather conditions like sleet or haze can vary slightly between different apps.
Are weather icons in apps easy to understand?
Most weather icons are designed to be self-explanatory. Apps aim for intuitive symbols, like rainy clouds for rain or wavy lines for wind. Some apps enhance clarity by labeling the conditions next to the icons.
