Before there were weather apps for your smartphone, Doppler radar, or the National Weather Service, our ancestors were busy observing their natural surroundings and noticed that animal behavior, clouds, and other elements of nature gave clues about the weather to come.
The result: weather folklore — sayings, rhymes and anecdotes that were passed down from generation to generation. Weather lore is one of our favorite subjects here at Farmers’ Almanac, and It’s been a reader favorite since our very first edition in 1818.
Below is a collection from our archives.
If you’re dreaming of a white Christmas, watch the weather on December 13, St. Lucia Day (the Feast of St. Lucy of Syracuse, Sicily). According to traditional lore, sunny weather on this day foretells snow on Christmas. Who Was St. Lucia? A Dark Tale St. Lucia (or St. Lucy) is recognized as the patron saint
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Are "cold spots" in rooms caused by paranormal activity?
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The ancient Greeks believed the seasons were each ruled by a different goddess. Learn about Xarpo, the lady of Autumn.
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The ancient Greeks believed a hundred-handed monster was behind hurricanes. Learn more!
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What does this old weather lore saying about a red sky predict about the weather to come? We have the answer.
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According to folklore, many animals can predict the weather. Is Peter Cottontail among them? Find out!
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Norse mythology had its own explanation for why winter is so dark. Learn more!
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Will-o-the-wisps are spooky floating lights believed to lead unwary travelers to their doom. Learn more!
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Learn what the Algonquin tribes believed was the cause behind the changing colors of fall.
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In ancient China, it was once believed that a dragon controlled the rain.
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