Rain to Snow Calculator
Convert rainfall to equivalent snowfall. Calculate how much snow would result from a given amount of rain based on temperature or snow-to-rain ratio.
Used to estimate ratio if not specified
Typical: 10:1 (10 inches snow = 1 inch rain)
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter the rainfall amount in inches.
- Optionally enter temperature to estimate snow-to-rain ratio.
- Optionally enter snow-to-rain ratio directly (if you know it).
- The calculator displays equivalent snowfall in inches.
- Use this to understand winter precipitation and plan for snow.
Rain to Snow Conversion Formula
Snowfall is calculated from rainfall and ratio:
Example: 1 inch of rain with 10:1 ratio: Snowfall = 1 × 10 = 10 inches. For 0.5 inches rain with 15:1 ratio: Snowfall = 0.5 × 15 = 7.5 inches. Ratio varies with temperature: Colder = higher ratio, warmer = lower ratio.
Full Description
Converting rainfall to snowfall helps you understand winter precipitation and plan for snow events. The conversion depends on the snow-to-rain ratio, which varies with temperature and conditions. The general rule is 10:1 (10 inches of snow equals 1 inch of rain), but actual ratios range from 5:1 (wet, heavy snow) to 30:1 (very light, fluffy snow).
Temperature is the primary factor affecting snow-to-rain ratio. Very cold temperatures (<20°F) produce light, fluffy snow with high ratios (15-20:1). Moderate temperatures (25-28°F) produce typical snow with ratios around 10:1. Warmer temperatures (28-32°F) produce wet, heavy snow with lower ratios (5-8:1). Above 32°F, precipitation falls as rain, not snow. The calculator estimates ratio from temperature if not specified.
This calculator helps you convert rainfall to snowfall. Enter rainfall and optionally temperature or ratio, and it calculates equivalent snowfall. Use it to understand winter weather, plan for snow events, estimate snow accumulation, or convert between rain and snow measurements. Understanding rain-to-snow conversion helps with weather planning and winter preparedness!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the snow-to-rain ratio?
The snow-to-rain ratio is how many inches of snow equal 1 inch of rain. Typical ratio: 10:1 (10 inches snow = 1 inch rain). However, ratio varies with temperature: Colder = higher ratio (more snow per inch of rain). Warmer = lower ratio (less snow per inch of rain).
How does temperature affect the ratio?
Temperature determines snow density. Very cold (<20°F): 20:1 ratio (light, fluffy snow). Cold (20-25°F): 15:1 ratio. Moderate (25-28°F): 10:1 ratio (typical). Warm (28-32°F): 5:1 ratio (wet, heavy snow). Above 32°F: No snow (rain only).
Why does the ratio vary?
Snow density varies with temperature and conditions. Cold air holds less moisture, creating light, fluffy snow (high ratio). Warm air holds more moisture, creating wet, heavy snow (low ratio). Wind, humidity, and storm type also affect density.
Is 10:1 always accurate?
No! 10:1 is a general rule, but actual ratios vary from 5:1 (wet snow) to 30:1 (very light snow). Use temperature to estimate ratio, or check local weather reports for actual ratios. The calculator estimates ratio from temperature if not specified.