How to Measure Snow and Ice

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This is my rain gauge on a nice summer day, ready to measure any rain that might fall from the thunderstorm in the background.

But rain gauges don't work as well with winter precipitation.  Snow tends to blow around the gauge and freezing rain sticks to it.  How can you get the best read on winter precipitation amounts?

If you have this type of gauge, take out the funnel and inner tube and take them into your house.  The larger opening of the outer tube makes a better target for snow, sleet and freezing rain.

When a winter storm occurs, take the outer tube indoors and let it thaw.  Then, you pour the liquid through the funnel into the inner tube.  Voila, you have a more accurate precipitation reading

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