What is Rainlog.org?

Rainlog.org is a cooperative rainfall monitoring network for Arizona. Data collected through this network will be used for a variety of applications, from watershed management activities to drought planning at local, county, and state levels.

All you need to participate is a rain gauge and access to the Internet. We are asking volunteers to select a rain gauge, install it at home, and report daily total rainfall amounts through the online data entry form.

Why do we need more rainfall data?

[A distribution of official gauges in Arizona with large gaps] Precipitation amounts are highly variable across Arizona due to topography and seasonal weather patterns. This is especially true during the monsoon season, when thunderstorms can produce heavy rainfall that is very localized.

The map at right shows a typical distribution of official gauges used to track monthly rainfall amounts. Large gaps exist over many parts of the state. Your observations will help fill these gaps, providing valuable information to be used in drought monitoring and resource management decision-making.

What products will come out of this project?

All data posted by volunteers is available in real-time in maps through the data tab at the top of the page. These maps are useful in tracking high-resolution variability in precipitation patterns and potential changes in drought status. As more people participate and more information is gathered, the resolution of the maps will improve.

If you have more questions, please e-mail help@rainlog.org.

Or contact one of our directors:

Gary Woodard
HAS, UA (ret); Water Resources consultant
Email: gary.c.woodard@gmail.com
Phone: (520) 520-626-5399
Mike Crimmins
Climate Science Extension Specialist
Email: crimmins@u.arizona.edu
Phone: (520) 626-4244
Fax: (520) 621-1647
Website: http://cals.arizona.edu/climate/