Weather Trip Advisor Widget for Shopify
Technologies Used
Custom weather integration system built for a recreational activity business, featuring real-time OpenWeatherMap API integration with intelligent rate limiting and configurable advisory thresholds. The widget processes weather data points into actionable visitor guidance, allowing the store owner to set custom safety parameters through Shopify's theme customizer. Includes sophisticated data mapping for weather conditions and precipitation levels with corresponding UI elements and warning systems for weather-dependent outdoor activities.
Sophisticated Weather Icon Mapping System
Developed a comprehensive weather visualization system using FontAwesome icons with dynamic layering for complex weather conditions. Built a sophisticated mapping system that combines day/night states, cloud coverage levels (clear/partial/scattered), and precipitation types (rain/snow/wind/fog) into contextual icon combinations. The system handles up to 4-layer icon stacking for accurate visual representation of complex weather scenarios like "day-partial-rain" with sun, clouds, and multiple droplets.
Multi-Source API Integration & Caching
Integrated both OpenWeatherMap's OneCall API for comprehensive weather data and Government of Canada's hydrometric API for real-time river conditions. Implemented intelligent localStorage caching with 30-minute expiration to minimize API calls while maintaining data freshness. Built robust error handling and fallback systems for API failures, ensuring the widget remains functional even during service interruptions.
Advanced Weather Data Processing
Created complex data transformation logic that processes raw API responses into user-friendly weather conditions. Implemented cloud coverage classification (51%+ = partial, 11-50% = scattered, <11% = clear) and precipitation detection using keyword matching for various weather descriptors including fog variants (mist, haze, smoke, etc.). Built temperature display with proper sign handling, unit conversion, and responsive formatting.
Mobile-Responsive Interface Architecture
Designed a collapsible mobile interface that transforms from desktop card layout to space-efficient dropdown bar. Implemented smooth toggle animations with dual-button states (More/Close with corresponding icons), dynamic content showing/hiding, and touch-friendly interaction patterns. The system preserves full functionality while optimizing screen real estate for mobile users.
Business Integration & Customization Framework
Built extensive Shopify theme customizer integration allowing complete visual and functional control without code changes. The system supports custom color schemes, typography controls, business hour management, and condition override capabilities. Combined with the technical consultation on booking systems, the weather advisor became the primary customer decision-making tool still active on the live site.
View current implementation: Pembina River Tubing