Stratus Precision Rain Measurement Gauge
Best professional-grade rain gauge for serious weather enthusiasts and farmers.
The Stratus Precision Rain Gauge is a professional-grade instrument trusted by the National Weather Service for highly accurate rainfall collection. This durable 14-inch gauge is constructed from UV-resistant polycarbonate, ensuring it withstands harsh weather conditions year-round. It features a substantial 11-inch capacity and measures precipitation increments as fine as 1/100th of an inch, making it ideal for meteorologists, farmers, and serious weather enthusiasts. The manual system requires no batteries or electronics, eliminating maintenance hassles. It includes a Quick Connect mounting bracket for easy installation, removal, and cleaning, and can also measure snow, hail, and sleet.
$69.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
2
/ 173
#2 in Rain Gauges
Price vs Category Average
+32%
Above average
Height
14
/ inches
Who it's for
- Data-driven gardeners needing precise precipitation tracking
- Homeowners living in climates with extreme weather conditions
- Busy observers wanting quick, easy-to-read rainfall data
Who should skip it
- Urban dwellers with limited or obstructed yard space
- Casual hobbyists seeking an affordable, entry-level solution
- Tech-focused users requiring automated or remote monitoring
Performance breakdown
Measurement Precision
Professional-grade accuracy trusted by the National Weather Service for critical data.
Durability
UV-resistant polycarbonate withstands years of harsh, direct outdoor exposure.
Maintenance Requirements
Battery-free design ensures zero electronic failure or ongoing upkeep costs.
Installation Ease
Quick Connect bracket makes mounting and seasonal cleaning remarkably simple.
Capacity
Large 11-inch reservoir handles heavy downpours without needing constant emptying.
Versatility
Reliably captures rain, snow, hail, and sleet for comprehensive weather tracking.
Key Specs
Height
14 inches
Capacity
11 inches of rainfall
Resolution
0.01 inches
Material
UV-resistant polycarbonate
Measurement Type
Manual cylinder gauge
Includes
Quick Connect mounting bracket
Power
None (Non-electronic)
Use Case
Official NOAA/National Weather Service instrument
Features
- Official NOAA/National Weather Service instrument
- Measures to 1/100th of an inch
- Durable UV-resistant polycarbonate construction
- Measures rain, snow, hail, and sleet
- Battery-free, maintenance-free operation
- Easy mounting and cleaning bracket
- Clear, bold measurement markings
- Large 11-inch capacity
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Stratus gauge for its exceptional precision and robust quality. Reviewers frequently highlight the gauge's reliable accuracy, noting that measurements are easy to read even from a distance thanks to the clear markings. The heavy duty construction ensures it remains stable and durable through harsh weather conditions, making it a long term investment rather than a seasonal replacement. Users appreciate the simple setup and the confidence they gain from knowing their rainfall data is trustworthy. This focus on reliable performance and lasting build quality defines the positive consumer experience.
Know before you buy
The Stratus Precision Rain Gauge is the official instrument used by the National Weather Service. Its design meets strict meteorological standards for accuracy, featuring a 0.01-inch resolution that is significantly more precise than typical consumer-grade plastic gauges.
To measure frozen precipitation, you remove the inner measuring tube and funnel, allowing the snow or hail to collect directly in the outer cylinder. Once collected, you can melt the sample indoors or add a measured amount of warm water to determine the liquid equivalent.
Yes, the gauge is constructed from UV-resistant polycarbonate specifically designed to prevent yellowing, cracking, or brittleness when exposed to harsh sunlight over multiple seasons.
The bracket is designed for easy installation on a fence post or wooden stake. It allows you to slide the gauge into place securely and quickly detach it whenever you need to empty or clean the cylinder.
For the most accurate results, mount the gauge in an open area away from trees, buildings, or other obstructions that could block rainfall. Ensure the gauge is perfectly level and check it regularly to clear out any debris that might affect the water level.
The gauge has a total capacity of 11 inches. If you are expecting extreme weather events that may exceed this amount, you should check and empty the gauge periodically throughout the storm.
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$70