> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.arcweather.cloud/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Getting Started

The ArcWeather API provides developers, organizations, and platforms with access to real-time and near-real-time weather data, including radar, lightning, and other environmental intelligence. The API is designed to support operational decision-making, safety systems, and weather-aware applications through a simple and scalable interface.

## Overview

The ArcWeather API is a collection of endpoints that deliver weather-related data for a variety of use cases, including:

* Lightning detection and activity

* Radar imagery and derived products

* Weather alerts and hazard data

* Additional environmental and forecast datasets

The API is available for both **commercial** and **non-commercial** use, provided that all access is authenticated via an API key.

## Authentication

<Note>
  All requests to the ArcWeather API require a valid API key.
</Note>

To obtain an API key:

<Steps>
  <Step title="Create an account at the ArcWeather Dashboard">
    [https://app.arcweather.cloud](https://app.arcweather.cloud/login?r=%2Faccount%2Fapi%2Fkeys%3Fax%3DcreateNew)
  </Step>

  <Step title="Generate an API key from your dashboard" />

  <Step title="Include your API key in all requests (see Authentication section for details)" />
</Steps>

Unauthorized requests or requests without a valid API key will be rejected.

## Rate Limits & Usage

ArcWeather provides multiple usage tiers, including a **free plan** and additional paid plans with expanded capabilities.

Each plan includes specific rate limits, which may apply to:

* Requests per second

* Requests per minute/hour

* Data volume or endpoint access

Exceeding your rate limits may result in throttling or temporary blocking of requests.

For detailed information on rate limits and plan options, please refer to the **Pricing & Plans** documentation.

## Attribution

Use of the ArcWeather API may require proper attribution depending on your use case and plan.

Attribution requirements may include:

* Displaying "Powered by ArcWeather" in your application

* Providing visible credit when displaying ArcWeather data publicly

* Following branding or usage guidelines

Please refer to the **Attribution Guidelines** documentation for full requirements and examples.

## Data Integrity & Liability

ArcWeather provides weather data on an **as-is** and **as-available** basis.

While we strive for accuracy and reliability:

* Data may be delayed, incomplete, or contain inaccuracies

* Real-time feeds may experience interruptions or outages

* Derived or predictive data should not be used as the sole source for critical safety decisions

ArcWeather is **not responsible** for:

* Decisions made based on API data

* Damages resulting from data inaccuracies or outages

* Misuse or misinterpretation of weather information

Users are responsible for validating data and implementing appropriate safeguards for their specific use case.

## Legal & Policies

By using the ArcWeather API, you agree to all applicable legal terms and policies, including:

* Privacy Policy

* Terms of Service

* Acceptable Use Policy

These documents outline your responsibilities, data usage rights, and limitations of liability.

Please review the official policy pages for full details.

## Next Steps

To get started:

* Create your account at [https://app.arcweather.cloud](https://app.arcweather.cloud)

* Generate your API key

* Review authentication and endpoint documentation

* Explore available datasets and integrations

ArcWeather is built to power weather-aware systems that require speed, clarity, and actionable insight.

Welcome to ArcWeather.