Measuring winter precipitation accurately requires the right technique — and the right gauge. The Stratus® Precision Rain Gauge is the official CoCoRaHS gauge and supports all three official methods for measuring snow and winter precipitation.
The official CoCoRaHS rain gauge. NOAA-endorsed, Made in the USA — built for year-round precision measurement including snow and winter precipitation.
Shop Stratus® Rain Gauge →The 3 Official CoCoRaHS Snow Measurement Methods
Method 1: Snowfall Depth
Measure the depth of fresh snow using a snow board or flat surface. Take multiple measurements and average them for accuracy. Report in inches to the nearest 0.1 inch.
Method 2: Liquid Equivalent from the Gauge
Allow snow to accumulate in your Stratus gauge. Bring it inside to melt, then read the liquid equivalent in the inner tube to 0.01-inch precision. This is the most accurate method for precipitation totals.
Method 3: Core Sample
Use a tube to extract a core sample of snow from an undisturbed surface. Melt the core and measure the liquid equivalent. Best used when snow has settled or crusted.
Winter Tips
- Empty your gauge before each storm for accurate per-storm totals
- Never add antifreeze to the gauge — it affects liquid equivalent readings
- Take readings as soon as possible after snowfall ends to minimize evaporation and settling
- Keep your gauge in the same location year-round for consistent data
Keep Your Measuring Tube in Top Shape
Winter use — repeated freeze-thaw cycles and bringing the gauge indoors to melt snow — can stress the inner measuring tube over time. If it becomes cracked or cloudy, replace it to maintain 0.01" accuracy.
Need a replacement measuring tube? Keep your Stratus gauge performing at its best with an official replacement tube — Made in the USA.
Shop Replacement Tube →Complete Your Setup
Pair your Stratus Rain Gauge with Stake It™ No-Dig Ground Anchor — the no-dig way to mount your gauge post securely in any ground, even frozen soil. Made in the USA.
