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How to Tell When It Is About to Rain

Folklore contains dozens of ways to predict when rain is imminent. Some are little more than superstition, while others are fairly reliable. The ones that work do so for the same underlying reasons ̵1; they indicate changes in atmospheric pressure, temperature or humidity. If you want to know when to bring the laundry inside, there are a few ways to tell when it̵7;s probably going to rain. The more indications you notice, the more likely a downfall is due.

Things You'll Need

Barometer
Hygrometer
Thermometer

Instructions

Clouds
- 1
  Look up. A completely clear sky obviously means rain is not coming in the next few minutes. If you can discern clouds, look at their shape. Several types of clouds may lead to rain. Low, dense, mushroom-shaped cumulonimbus clouds are most associated with heavy rain and thunderstorms. If the sky is so overcast you can̵7;t pick out individual clouds, look at the color ̵1; generally, the darker gray the clouds, the more likely rain is coming.
- 2
  Watch the wildlife. If birds in particular are becoming quiet or heading for shelter, there̵7;s a good chance they sense rain coming.
- 3
  Take a reading from your hygrometer -- humidity gauge -- if you have one. An increase in humidity often occurs before rain. Get into the habit of looking at the hygrometer a couple of times a day, so you'll know what the humidity is normally like and be more attuned to changes.
- 4
  Take a reading from your barometer -- atmospheric pressure gauge. Rain is often associated with low pressure.
- 5
  Note the outdoor temperature. If it becomes noticeably chillier, rain might be on its way.
- 6
  Observe your pets if they spend a lot of time outside. Their behavior may change just before heavy rain; for example, chickens might take shelter in their coop and dogs may become excited. As with wildlife, they̵7;re reacting to the same indicators you observed ̵1; changes in temperature, humidity, pressure and cloud cover ̵1; but they might notice before you do.

Nature