Skip to main content

What is the Weather?

EKATERINA VASILEVA-BAGLER—GETTY IMAGES

Step outside. What is it like? The day might be sunny and dry. It might be damp and cool. That is the weather. Here are some ways to talk about the weather.

Temperature

A bundled-up child stands outside in in the snow.
FLORIN PRUNOIU—GETTY IMAGES

This is how hot or cold the air is. We measure it in degrees Fahrenheit (ºF). At or below 32ºF is freezing. Above 85ºF is hot.

Wind

A child in a red jacket stands outdoors as strong wind blows their hair.
COKADA—GETTY IMAGES

The movement of air is called wind. It can be a gentle breeze. It can be a strong gust. Wind is measured in miles per hour.

Precipitation

Two children play happily in the rain.
TAMMY NICOLE—CAVAN IMAGES/GETTY IMAGES

Precipitation is water that falls from the sky. Rain is one type. When it is cold, there might be snow. Precipitation is measured in inches.

Humidity

A child in a yellow raincoat walks along a foggy road.
TATYANA TOMSICKOVA—GETTY IMAGES

This is how much water is in the air. The water is not falling. People say humid days feel damp or muggy.