Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) Premium Data Layer

Tomorrow.io Team
Tomorrow.io Team
  • Updated

The Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) index is a key metric used to monitor and evaluate heat stress conditions. It combines multiple environmental factors, including temperature, humidity, wind speed, and solar radiation, to provide a comprehensive assessment of heat-related risks. WBGT is commonly used in occupational safety, sports management, and industrial applications to ensure health and safety in high-heat environments.

How WBGT is Calculated

WBGT is calculated using advanced algorithms that account for:

Air Temperature (Dry Bulb): The ambient temperature measured in the shade.

Humidity: The amount of moisture in the air, which impacts evaporation and cooling.

Wind Speed: Affects heat dissipation and cooling efficiency.

Solar Radiation: Accounts for direct sunlight exposure, which significantly increases heat stress levels.

These calculations ensure that WBGT provides accurate and actionable insights tailored to real-world conditions. Note that WBGT values are primarily relevant at temperatures above 20°C (68°F), as they are designed to assess heat stress rather than cold stress.

Accessing WBGT on the Tomorrow.io Platform You can access WBGT data directly on the Tomorrow.io platform to assess heat stress conditions effectively:

  1. Log into your Tomorrow.io account.

  2. Navigate to the map view.

  3. Add the "WBGT" parameter to your trends view.

  4. Toggle on the "WBGT" layer to visualize current heat stress conditions across your area of interest.

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Practical Applications of WBGT

  1. Occupational Safety: Employers use WBGT data to implement safety measures such as hydration breaks, shaded rest areas, and adjusted work schedules in high-heat conditions.

  2. Sports and Events: Event organizers plan schedules and activities based on WBGT levels to ensure participant safety.

  3. Industrial Operations: Facilities utilize WBGT data to mitigate heat-related risks for equipment and processes sensitive to temperature changes.

API Access for Developers

Developers can integrate WBGT data into their applications through the Tomorrow.io API. This enables:

  • Real-time monitoring of WBGT conditions.

  • Automation of alerts for critical WBGT thresholds.

  • Custom integrations for heat stress analysis in industry-specific contexts.

For detailed integration guidelines, visit our API Documentation or use the API Assistant.

Important Considerations

  • WBGT values below 20°C are considered negligible and are not intended for cold stress analysis.

  • Ensure data accuracy by combining WBGT with other environmental parameters where relevant.

  • Use WBGT data alongside operational best practices to optimize safety and efficiency.

Need Help? For further assistance or more information about WBGT, contact our support team at support@tomorrow.io

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