snow-gaugeFor kids, the most important thing about winter is how much snow falls from the sky and what they can do with it. However, for adults there’s more to measuring snow than how much fun we can have in it and where it comes up to on the yard stick. Why is Snow Measurement Important? Snowfall measurement helps people determine what measures they need to take to clear roads and the amount of melt to expect in the spring.   For instance, when a lot of snow accumulates over the winter, there’s more water for the reservoirs in the spring. There’s lots of water available for splashing around in the summer and keeping your lawn green with regular use of your sprinkler.  However, when there’s not much snow, water restrictions may be put in place, and many businesses can suffer for it if taken unaware. Many of them have someone to monitor snow levels over the winter to prepare for any deficit when spring rolls around.

It’s important for homeowners to pay attention as well. The heavier the snow fall, the more important prompt removal is. If too much weight from the white stuff stays for too long, you may need to replace your roof once damage is exposed after the snow melts away.

Getting True Measurements Although yard sticks from gardening centers are pretty, they’re not an accurate way to measure the impact of the winter storms. To do that, the water in the snow needs to be measured. This is done by using a specialized snow gauge. Gauges are composed of two parts: a gauge shaped like a funnel, and a copper container which catches the snow.

Once container is filled, it’s removed, and the snow is allowed to melt. When the water is poured out, the amount is measured in millimeters. When there’s more water, you have “wet” snow. When there’s less, you have “dry” snow.

Of course, for most of us, the most we need to worry about when it comes to snow storms is shoveling it and playing in it with the kids.