Making a Rain Gauge

There's no better way to learn about the weather than to observe it and experience it first hand. Keep track of your local precipitation with a simple rain gauge made from a clear plastic bottle. If you calibrate it carefully, you can take quite accurate readings.

1. Cut the top section off a clear bottle as shown. Use a ruler to mark measuring increments starting about 2" from the bottom.

2. Place several small rocks in the bottom (for weight), then fill the bottle with water to the 0 mark. This will calibrate your gauge.

3. Invert the top of the bottle into to rain gauge to act as a funnel. Place gauge on a flat surface outside.

4. Wait for the next rain and observe and record rainfall amounts.

Looking for more inspirations for rainy days? Check out Ten Rainy Day Activities.