Startup Tomorrow.io builds private weather forecasting network as National Weather Service faces stormy future

Weather prediction startup Tomorrow.io is positioning itself to fill critical gaps in forecasting as potential budget cuts threaten the National Weather Service. The company’s network of satellites and AI-powered forecasting technology offers businesses customized weather intelligence at a time when public services may face significant reductions. As climate change increases weather volatility, this private-sector solution raises important questions about the future of weather forecasting infrastructure.

The big picture: Tomorrow.io has built a commercial weather forecasting business that’s gaining momentum as potential government cutbacks to the National Weather Service loom on the horizon.

• Founded in 2016 by Shimon Elkabetz, the company now has six weather radar satellites in orbit with plans to launch four more in the coming months.
• The startup aims to gather global weather data every 40-60 minutes, providing businesses with AI-powered forecasts to mitigate weather-related risks.

Why this matters: Weather forecasting has traditionally been a government-provided service, but potential cuts proposed by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) could reduce NOAA staffing by up to 20% and close crucial forecasting facilities.

• These cuts would create significant gaps in weather monitoring and prediction capabilities at a time when accurate forecasts are increasingly vital for public safety and economic stability.
• Private solutions like Tomorrow.io represent a shift toward commercialization of weather services that were previously considered public goods.

Behind the numbers: Tomorrow.io has raised $269 million in venture capital, including a $109 million Series E round in 2023 that potentially values the company at $1.2 billion.

• The company expects to achieve cash flow positivity within the next 12 months, suggesting a viable business model for privatized weather services.

Key details: Unlike traditional weather services that simply provide forecasts, Tomorrow.io offers businesses specific recommendations during weather events and employs generative AI models to enhance prediction capabilities.

• The company’s approach focuses on improving global weather data access while providing actionable intelligence tailored to individual business needs.
• Their satellite constellation represents one of the first commercially built weather radar networks designed specifically for business applications.