Patio party season is upon us, and we can't wait to get out the patio furniture. But before you start thinking about picnic recipes, do something very important: check the weather!
Even in the warmer months, unexpected rain can ruin your plans, so keep an eye on your weather app. There, you'll probably see a percentage number that's supposed to indicate how likely it is to rain. But wait! That number doesn't mean exactly what you thought.
What does the percentage of rain mean?
According to a viral theory online, that percentage doesn't indicate the likelihood of rain, but the area that will be affected by the precipitation. So if you see 40%, it means that 40% of the predicted area will get rain.
But don't rush - it's not that simple!
Meteorologists disagree on how to calculate the Probability of Precipitation (PoP). Some use a formula: PoP = C x A, where C is the meteorologist's confidence level and A is the area predicted to receive precipitation. So, if there is a 50% chance of rain in 80% of an area, then the probability of rain is 40%.
In most cases, the percentage simply indicates how likely precipitation is at a given point in the area covered by the weather forecast. This is also the official way the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) calculates it.
What does this mean to you?
To be honest, not much. If you're planning something outdoors, you'll be prepared the same way, no matter how you interpret that number. If you see 80%, you'll probably postpone the party. If it's 20%, you'll go ahead with the plans.
But it wouldn't hurt to know the terminology better, right?
Sources: Taste of Home
