Flint’s Weather Ball Glows Orange for the First Time Ever – Here’s Why

The Weather Ball has been a familiar part of the Flint skyline since it was built in 1956. Originally owned and operated by Citizens Bank, the ball not only changes color to indicate shifts in Flint weather, but it has also become an iconic symbol of Vehicle City.

What the Weather Ball Colors Mean

Anyone from Flint can tell you how the Weather Ball works. When the Weather Ball is red, warmer temperatures are ahead. When the Weather Ball is blue, colder temperatures are due. When yellow light is the color of the Weather Ball, there will be no change at all. And when it blinks in agitation, you can count on precipitation.

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But what about when the Weather Ball is orange? For the first time in history, the ball will glow orange. Not just once, but a total of three nights throughout the month of September. And no — it’s not for maintenance or repairs. Instead, this new color will shine brightly to raise awareness for Hunger Action Month.

READ MORE: What Flint's Weather Ball Looks Like Up Close

According to Huntington Bank’s Regional Banking Program Manager, Lisa Brinker, “Huntington Bank is proud to partner with the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan and to support their work in bringing essential food and hope to communities across 22 counties in the state.” Along with the announcement came the upcoming dates for the orange color change.

Key Dates for the Orange Glow

On the evening of Thursday, September 4, the Weather Ball will shine orange leading into National Food Bank Day on September 5.

On Monday night, September 8, the ball will glow orange ahead of National Hunger Action Day on September 9.

Finally, on the evening of Wednesday, September 17, the Weather Ball will be orange one last time, shining in support of the Food Bank’s Empty Bowls event on September 18.

For nearly 70 years, the Weather Ball has been Flint’s guide to the skies. This September, it becomes a beacon of hope.