What does hourly precipitation measure?

Hourly precipitation specifically measures the water equivalent of all precipitation, which encompasses rain, snow, sleet, and hail that has fallen during the previous hour, reported in hundredths of an inch. This value indicates the total amount of moisture that has occurred in that time frame, providing crucial information for meteorological assessments and forecasting.

The measure is particularly beneficial because it accounts for all forms of precipitation, enabling meteorologists to analyze weather patterns and their impacts comprehensively. By expressing this quantity in hundredths of an inch, it standardizes the reporting of precipitation amounts, facilitating easier data comparison and interpretation.

Understanding this definition is vital because it highlights that hourly precipitation is not limited to just rainfall but includes various forms of moisture that fall to the ground, thus providing a more complete picture of weather conditions.