A weather ball is a large, illuminated sphere displayed atop a building, often a bank, which changes color to indicate the short-term weather forecast. These illuminated globes became popularized in the mid-20th century, providing a readily visible forecast for the community. Locating such a device in Flint, Michigan, suggests a desire to provide residents with easily accessible weather information.
Historically, before widespread access to digital forecasts, these public weather indicators served a vital community function. For a city like Flint, with its diverse industries and potential for severe weather, having a highly visible weather indicator could be particularly beneficial. This type of public weather display promotes community awareness and preparedness, potentially mitigating the impact of inclement weather. Its prominent placement makes the forecast accessible to everyone, regardless of access to technology.
