A1 turns mobile network into a data platform for more accurate weather forecasting with Skyfora and Nokia

• A1 is expanding the use of its existing 5G infrastructure together with Skyfora and Nokia to continuously capture atmospheric data
• New technology improves the forecasting of short-term and highly localized weather events
• Initial sites in Austria and Slovenia are already providing near real-time data for weather analysis

A1, together with Finnish company Skyfora and Nokia, is taking another innovative step in the continued development of its network infrastructure by deploying, for the first time, a solution for capturing highly precise weather data within its own network. Mobile network sites are being transformed into intelligent sensors that continuously generate atmospheric data. The aim is to improve weather forecasts, particularly in alpine regions, where fast-changing local weather conditions are a challenge.

Several sites in the Seetal Alps region in Carinthia — including Roethelstein, Weißkirchen, St. Georgen ob Judenburg, Turrach and Metnitz — have already been equipped accordingly and are delivering the first high-quality data. One A1 Slovenia site is also part of the project..

How the mobile network becomes a source of weather data
As part of the ongoing tests, existing 5G sites are being used to continuously capture atmospheric data. The solution relies on GNSS signals received at the mobile network sites. As these signals travel through the atmosphere, they are affected by factors such as humidity. By analysing these signal variations, it is possible to derive precise insights into the water vapour content of the atmosphere — a key parameter in the formation of precipitation, thunderstorms and fog.

Christian Laqué, CTO of A1 Austria: “We are continuously evolving our network and deliberately unlocking capabilities that go beyond traditional connectivity. Together with Skyfora and Nokia, we are demonstrating how existing infrastructure can be extended in a targeted way to generate additional data for more precise weather forecasting. What matters is that this data is created exactly where it is needed — with high geographical resolution and without requiring any additional infrastructure. This opens new opportunities to better understand and anticipate short-term weather developments.”

Greater precision in dynamic weather conditions
The collected data complement existing weather models and are particularly valuable for short-term, highly localised weather events. This is especially important in alpine regions, where weather can change rapidly and affect very small areas. Better local observations can make forecasts more useful where every minute counts — helping to detect dangerous flash floods earlier, optimise hydropower operations and reduce weather-related disruption and costs for critical infrastructure. This gives energy providers, traffic management operators and emergency response organisations a stronger basis for planning and decision-making.

"We are proud to work with A1, a frontrunner pushing the boundaries of what mobile networks can deliver beyond connectivity. Our software solution enables existing telecom infrastructure to be transformed into a highly scalable weather observation network. The resulting real-time data makes an important contribution to improving modern AI-based weather models — strengthening decision-making for critical infrastructure, energy, and other weather-sensitive sectors” says Fredrik Borgström, CEO of Skyfora.

Christoph Rohr, Country Manager at Nokia, highlights the innovative nature of the collaboration: “Telecommunication networks are the reliable, critical infrastructure for our day-to-day connectivity. This project proves that infrastructure can do much more: providing highly valuable data for AI enabled applications and unlocking new opportunities. We are proud to be A1’s trusted partner here.”

With this initiative, A1, together with Skyfora and Nokia, is demonstrating how mobile networks can evolve beyond their traditional role and enable new data-driven applications based on existing infrastructure, creating tangible value for business and society.

Vladimir Skender, Senior Network Director, A1 Slovenia and A1 Croatia: “At A1 Slovenia, we are proud to contribute to this innovative trial together with Skyfora, Nokia, and our colleagues in Austria. By integrating GNSS-based sensing into our existing network infrastructure, we are exploring how mobile networks can deliver added value beyond connectivity. The inclusion of a Slovenian site demonstrates our commitment to innovation and cross-market collaboration, while supporting the development of more precise and localized weather forecasting capabilities.”

About Nokia
Nokia is a global leader in connectivity for the AI era. With expertise across fixed, mobile, and transport networks, we’re advancing connectivity to secure a brighter world.

About Skyfora
Skyfora is a Finnish weather data company building a novel global weather observation network. The company’s patented technology uses GNSS receivers in existing mobile networks to capture highly accurate weather data. This data improves the quality of AI-based weather forecasting, strengthens climate resilience and supports critical decision-making in weather-dependent industries. With its data-driven approach, Skyfora is redefining the possibilities of global weather forecasting. www.skyfora.com