Buienradar

Buienradar is a Dutch weather information service that provides near real-time precipitation radar maps, short-term rainfall forecasts, and related weather data for the Netherlands and Belgium. The service is accessible via buienradar.nl and through mobile apps for iOS and Android, and is widely used for planning outdoor activities.

Data and methods: Buienradar combines radar measurements from national networks, notably the KNMI, with forecast models to produce short-range predictions. The core feature is an interactive map that shows current rainfall intensity, movement direction, and hourly to multi-hour forecasts, often color-coded by precipitation rate in millimeters per hour.

Features: The platform offers animated radar layers, location-based forecasts, hourly forecasts, precipitation probability, and push notifications. Users can track a chosen location, switch between units, and add widgets or alerts for upcoming rain.

Coverage and usage: Buienradar focuses on the Netherlands and Belgium, with data and forecasts tailored to these regions. It is one of the most visited weather sites in the Netherlands and is frequently cited in media and daily planning.

History and ownership: Buienradar is operated by Buienradar B.V., a privately held Dutch company. The service originated in the early 2000s and expanded from a web-based tool to a mobile-first platform, maintaining a focus on accessible, visual rain information.

Limitations: While useful for short-term planning, radar data have limited spatial resolution and forecast uncertainty increases with lead time; users should consider official forecasts for critical decisions.