Chance of rain, aka the chance of precipitation and probability of precipitation (PoPs), tells you the likelihood (expressed as a percentage) that a location within your forecast area will see measurable precipitation (at least 0.01 inch) during a specified time period.

Let's say tomorrow's forecast says your city has a 30% chance of precipitation. This does not mean:

There's a 30% chance it will rain and a 70% chance it won't

Three out of 10 times when the weather is similar, it will rain

Precipitation will fall 30% of the day (or night)

Thirty percent of the forecast area will experience rain, snow, or storms

Rather, the correct interpretation would be: there is a 30% chance that 0.01 inch (or more) of rain will fall somewhere (at any one or multiple locations) within the forecast area.

PoP Adjectives

Sometimes a forecast won't mention the percent chance of precipitation outright, but instead, will use descriptive words to suggest it. Whenever you see or hear them, here's how to know what percent that is: