Predicting weather forecasts days, weeks and months in advance involves an incredible number of sensors and simulations. But there are ways to use nature to take a guess at what the weather will be like – albeit far less accurate estimates.
OK, we don't have empirical evidence, but we like the logic.
Weather in the UK prevails west to east. A rainbow in the west (usually in the morning) often means bad weather is coming, whereas a rainbow in the east (evenings) means bad weather has passed.
Their aromas are said to be strongest just before rain - scents are stronger in the moist air that precedes precipitation.
Sunlight in the morning and evening comes in at a lower angle, meaning the red end of the spectrum is more visible than green, blue and violet. Red clouds in the evening mean light travels a clear path from the west to illuminate easterly-moving rain clouds.
The converse for the morning is also true: rain clouds are moving in.
Milky halos around the Sun or Moon are caused by water vapour, which often precedes moisture moving in much closer to the Earth.
If a woman's hair is curly but begins to drop and straighten, it's may be a sign of rising humidity - which often precedes rain.
They prefer to lie down if rain is due, and tend to stand facing away from the oncoming wind.
Known as the Poor Man's Barometer, its flowers close when atmospheric pressure decreases and rain is on the way. Dandelions and tulips do the same.
They are often sensitive to storms. Weather lore suggests their aural and nasal sensitivity can detect distant thunderclaps. If Fido gets agitated, it may be time to bring in the washing.
Bees don't like wet weather and can't fly in strong winds. Their return en masse to a hive is said to presage a thunderstorm.
If seagulls are on the sand, a storm is due: they prefer landing on water but don't like rough seas.
This article originally appeared in WIRED magazine in December 2009. These suggestions are meant to be lighthearted and should be taken as such.
This article was originally published by WIRED UK
