> ## 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 Looking for the ArcWeather API Docs? View our Getting Started article [here](https://docs.arcweather.cloud/api-getting-started). Welcome to the ArcWeather Platform. The ArcWeather Platform is a **platform-as-a-service (PaaS)** designed to help organizations and individuals monitor weather, understand risk, and take action — all through a simple, intuitive interface. This guide provides a high-level overview of what the platform offers and how to get started. ## What is ArcWeather? ArcWeather is built to turn complex weather data into **clear, actionable insights**. Instead of working directly with raw data, the platform provides: * Visual dashboards and map-based views * Shareable widgets and live views * Automated alerts and notifications * Policy-based decision tools * Predictive insights for weather hazards Everything is designed to help you quickly answer:\ **"Are we safe right now, and what should we do next?"** ## Core Features ### Dashboards & Views Create and manage weather views for specific locations. * Monitor lightning, radar, and active weather hazards * View real-time conditions and trends * Customize views for your organization’s needs ### Shareable Widgets ArcWeather allows you to create **live, shareable widgets and views** that can be distributed to: * Staff and teams * Event coordinators * Stakeholders and leadership * The public (if desired) These views update in real time and require no technical setup for end users. ### Alerts & Notifications Stay informed with **automated alerts** based on your defined conditions. Notifications can be delivered via: * Email * SMS / text message * Push notifications Alerts are designed to be timely, clear, and actionable. ### Policy-Based Alerts Define your own weather safety rules and thresholds. Examples include: * Lightning within a defined radius * Severe weather warnings * Wind, heat, or other environmental thresholds ArcWeather continuously monitors conditions and triggers alerts when your policies are met. ### Predictive Insights ArcWeather includes **predictive and forward-looking insights** to help you prepare, not just react. * Short-term hazard prediction * Trend-based risk awareness * Early indicators of changing conditions These tools help you make proactive decisions with greater confidence. ## Who is ArcWeather For? ArcWeather is designed for a wide range of users, including: * Schools and universities * Sports teams and event organizers * Churches and community organizations * Operations and safety teams * Weather-aware businesses and developers Whether you need simple visibility or advanced automation, ArcWeather scales to your needs. ## Getting Started To begin using ArcWeather: 1. Create an account at:\ [https://app.arcweather.cloud](https://app.arcweather.cloud) 2. Set up your first location or view 3. Configure alerts and notification preferences 4. Share your dashboards or widgets with your team You can be up and running in just a few minutes. ## Using the API If you are a developer and need direct access to raw weather data, ArcWeather also provides a dedicated API. The API is separate from the platform and is intended for: * Custom applications * Backend integrations * Advanced data workflows Refer to the [**ArcWeather API Documentation**](/api-getting-started) for more information. ## Learn More This documentation will guide you through: * Setting up and managing locations * Creating and sharing widgets * Configuring alerts and policies * Understanding platform features in detail ArcWeather is built to make weather data simple, fast, and actionable. Let’s get started.