The 5 Best Weather Predictors
Ever dreamed of being a meteorologist? Are you that friend who's totally obsessed with the weather? Or do you simply like using attractive glass bottles as cool decor? If so, you'll love having a weather predictor in your home. There are different types of weather predictors, but the most popular type is a storm glass, an antique-style instrument that's made of clear glass. Inside the glass, there's a mixture of chemicals that crystalize and can predict weather patterns. Pretty cool, huh? Apart from being able to forecast weather up to two days in advance, you'll also enjoy the look of a storm glass, which makes for a unique addition to any bookshelf or table. This is also the perfect gift for the true weather fans in your life. Here, we've rounded up the five best weather predictors, grouped by category.
Constantinople Storm Glass Weather Predictor
Uniquely functional and chic
The snazzy-looking Storm Glass Weather Predictor from Constantinople serves dual purposes: It’s a great, useful tool for predicting the weather, and it’s also a gorgeous home decor piece. So, how does it work? Interestingly, the state of crystallization within the liquid inside the glass is linked to outside weather changes; these chemical patterns are both striking and easy to track. And, the delicate teardrop-shaped bottle, which stands atop a sturdy wooden platform, is a lovely decorative element all its own. All in all, this is the ideal gift for the weather enthusiast in your life, whether that’s you, your partner, or a friend.
Pros:
- The crystallization process is easy and fun to observe.
- Patterns look lovely inside the glass.
- The uniquely shaped bottle makes for fun home decor.
- Packaging is clean, simple, and secure; instructions are clear and easy to read.
Cons:
- Doesn’t come cheap.
Unique Gadgets & Toys Storm Glass Weather Forecaster
Sleek and simple
In a process akin to magic, the crystals inside this storm glass from Unique Gadgets & Toys are activated by electromagnetic changes in the weather, which results in a beautiful display inside the glass. You’ll love watching as the liquid transforms from clear to cloudy to crystal flakes. The actual design of the Storm Glass Weather Forecaster is what sets it apart, though. It’s a simple, intricately made glass ball on a wooden stand, and it even comes with built-in LED capabilities and a USB cable.
Pros:
- Simple yet sleek design: circular glass atop a wooden stand.
- Has built-in LED lights, an on/off switch, and USB cable.
- The display inside the glass is beautiful to observe, as the liquid changes from clear to cloudy to crystal flakes.
- Comes with a gift box.
Cons:
- More decorative than functional.
Sorrelo Weather Predicting Storm Glass
Delicate shape and style
The Sorrelo Weather Predicting Storm Glass is crafted from handmade glass, so you can easily watch as the crystals inside change throughout the seasons, according to weather conditions. The teardrop shape of the bottle looks elegant and chic sitting on any bookshelf or cabinet, especially when the crystals begin to change and grow. Basically, this is functional artwork at its finest.
Pros:
- Teardrop shape is eye-catching and elegant.
- Each product is handmade.
- Can easily seen the formation of crystals through the glass.
Cons:
- Smaller than most weather predictors, so it may not the right size for everyone.
AcuRite Self-Learning Weather Station
For the tech nerds out there
If modern technology is more your speed, then you’ll love the AcuRite Self-Learning Weather Station. All you have to do is mount the sensor outside and make sure to put batteries inside the display, and you’ll then be able to enjoy indoor and outdoor temperature readings. The display is clear and easy to read, and the atomic clock and calendar precisely set themselves to the correct time and date. Predict weather up to 24 hours out simply by monitoring the temperature readings on this handy little device.
Pros:
- You can monitor both indoor and outdoor temps and predict weather up to 24 hours in advance.
- Display is clear and easy to read.
- Has an integrated hang hole, so you can easily mount this sensor anywhere outside.
Cons:
- Definitely on the expensive end.
AcuRite Galileo Thermometer with Glass Globe
Dual weather tools for the win
This super-cool, cylindrical thermometer and barometer set from AcuRite was inspired by Galileo’s actual instruments, so save it for the true weather fans in your life. This predictor interprets temperature and weather patterns based on principles of air pressure and buoyancy, and it’s fun to watch as the colorful, liquid-filled spheres sink and rise. Both the globe and thermometer are mounted securely on a wooden base; together, they make for an appealing trinket for your home or office.
Pros:
- Not just for decorative purposes; it can effectively predict the weather.
- Looks awesome as the liquid-filled spheres rise and sink according to temperature changes.
Cons:
- Would be nice if the thermometer was just a tad bigger.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a storm glass and how does it work?
A storm glass is a type of weather predicting device that was commonly used in the 19th century. Inside the clear glass, the mixture of chemicals reacts to changes in the outside environment; by learning to read the way the chemicals react, you can predict weather patterns up to one or two days in advance.
Where should I put my weather predictor?
You should place your weather predictor on a sturdy shelf, in a cabinet, or anywhere else it’ll be kept safe, away from direct sunlight and open windows.
How far out in advance can you predict the weather?
Some weather forecasts can run out to 10 days, although the most accurate forecasts are done 24 to 48 hours in advance.
About the Author
Why Trust Us
DogTime is a leading resource for dog owners & pet lovers. Our goal is to give every dog & pet a happy, healthy home by providing the best advice to owners.