README.md

Temperature Profile for Birken Race

To see an example go here

This Python script computes and visualizes the temperature profile for the Birken Races, such as the long-distance cross-country ski race in Norway. It combines GPX data from a chosen route and race time with weather forecast data from the Norwegian Meteorological Institute (MET Norway) to create an interactive plot showing the estimated temperature range along the course.

Key Features

• Fetches GPX data for a specified route and race time from the Birken website.
• Retrieves weather forecast data (temperature) for each point in the GPX data using MET Norway's API.
• Shifts the GPX time data to match the user-provided start time.
• Combines GPX and weather data into a single dictionary.
• Generates a visual plot with:
  • Distance on the x-axis
  • Elevation on the secondary y-axis
  • Temperature range (low and high) on the primary y-axis
• Stores the combined data as a JSON file (fullDict.json) for potential reuse.
• Saves the plot as an interactive HTML file (temperatureProfile.html).

Usage

1. Install required Python libraries:

   conda env create -f envirnoment.yml

2. Run the script from the command line, providing necessary arguments:

   python birkentempprofiler.py -r rennet -s "2024-03-16T08:00:00" -t 5 -f

   • Replace rennet with the desired race type (rennet, rittet, or løpet).
   • Adjust the start time (-s) and total time (-t) as needed.
   • Use the -f flag to download fresh weather data (not cached).
   • Use -h to see additional features.

Output

• fullDict.json: Contains the combined GPX and weather data in JSON format.
• temperatureProfile.html: An interactive plot visualizing the temperature profile and elevation along the race course. Open this file in a web browser to view the plot.

Additional Notes

• This script utilizes external data sources and APIs, which may have usage restrictions or rate limits.
• The accuracy of the temperature profile depends on the accuracy of the weather forecast data.
• Consider the potential time required to fetch and process data, especially for longer race times.

For More Information

• Birken website: https://birkebeiner.no/en/ski
• MET Norway weather API: https://api.met.no/