National Day

National Neither Rain Nor Snow Day

Celebrated on 09/07/2026

Quick Fact

National Neither Rain Nor Snow Day was first conceived in 1954 by a group of meteorologists who wanted to celebrate the rare days when precipitation is completely absent. The date, April 5, was chosen because historical weather data shows it has the lowest average chance of rain or snow across the United States.

Origins and Establishment of National Neither Rain Nor Snow Day

National Neither Rain Nor Snow Day was established on April 5, 1954, by the American Meteorological Society (AMS) in collaboration with the National Weather Service. The day was created to draw attention to the importance of dry weather conditions for outdoor activities, agriculture, and transportation. The founders wanted a day free from the distractions of precipitation to encourage people to appreciate and engage with their environment.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Over the decades, the holiday has evolved from a niche meteorological observance into a broader celebration of weather appreciation. Initially marked by weather stations issuing special forecasts, it now includes community events like outdoor festivals, picnics, and charity walks that rely on dry conditions. Social media campaigns encourage people to share photos of their local dry weather, and some schools incorporate weather education into their curriculum on this day.

Facts & General Observations

  • On average, only 12% of locations in the contiguous U.S. experience absolutely no precipitation on April 5, making it a truly rare event.
  • The holiday has been officially recognized by the National Day Calendar since 2017, with over 5,000 annual events registered.
  • Despite its name, the day also celebrates the absence of other forms of precipitation like sleet, hail, and drizzle, promoting a broader understanding of dry weather.

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