How is an inch of rain measured? Same goes for snow. 5 inches of snow? What’s the width, or height, or shape of this inch?

Question

How is an inch of rain measured? Same goes for snow. 5 inches of snow? What’s the width, or height, or shape of this inch?

In: Earth Science

Answer 1

The rain measurement is made with a rain gauge. It just needs to be placed in an open area with no obstructions, like trees, above it.

https://www.weatherstationadvisor.com/best-rain-gauge/

Snow measurements are make with measuring sticks in an open area with a flat surface.

https://www.weather.gov/dvn/snowmeasure