10 Weather Myths You Grew Up Believing That Aren’t True at All
These weather myths have been passed down for years—but science says they’re not true.
- Daisy Montero
- 3 min read
Many of what we think we know about the weather comes from things we heard as kids. Maybe you still count seconds between thunder and lightning or believe a red sky at night means smooth sailing. Turns out, many of these so-called facts are either outdated or completely false. We’re clearing the air on 10 common weather myths that need to be retired for good.
1. Lightning Never Strikes the Same Place Twice
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Contrary to popular belief, lightning often strikes the same spot multiple times. Tall, isolated structures like skyscrapers and towers are hit repeatedly during storms. The Empire State Building, for example, is struck about 20–25 times a year.
2. You Can Catch a Cold From Cold Weather
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Feeling chilly does not cause the common cold. Viruses are what make you sick, and people tend to stay indoors more in winter, making it easier to spread germs. It’s not the temperature—it’s the crowding that gets you.
3. Red Sky at Night, Sailor’s Delight
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This rhyme has a hint of truth but is not a reliable forecast. Weather systems often move west to east, so a red sky at sunset can suggest clearing skies—unless you’re not in the right hemisphere or weather pattern. It’s catchy but not always accurate.
4. Tornadoes Avoid Bid Cities
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Tornadoes can hit anywhere, including the heart of a city. While open areas might see more frequent touchdowns, urban centers are not immune. In fact, St. Louis, Dallas, and Nashville have all had major tornado strikes.
5. Heat Lightning Means Storms Are Far Away
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“Heat lightning” is not a special type of lightning—it is just regular lightning from a distant storm. You might see the flashes without hearing the thunder, but it is still tied to storm activity. There is nothing mystical about it.
6. If It’s Not Raining, There’s No Danger
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Thunderstorms can bring lightning even before the first drop of rain falls. Just because it’s dry where you are does not mean you’re safe. If you hear thunder, you are close enough to get struck.
7. Opening Windows During a Tornado Prevents Damage
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This old advice is not only outdated; it can be dangerous. Opening windows will not equalize pressure and could even make things worse. Instead, find a safe space away from windows and take cover.
8. Snow Is White
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Technically, snow is colorless. The ice crystals scatter light, making it appear white. Depending on lighting and conditions, snow can even look blue or pink.
9. You Can always See a Storm Coming
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Not all dangerous weather gives you obvious signs. Clear skies can shift in minutes, and some severe storms develop with little visual warning. Radar and alerts are more reliable than your eyes.
10. Hail Only Falls During Cold Weather
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Hail can fall even on hot days. It forms high in the atmosphere where temperatures are freezing, regardless of how warm it feels on the ground. Summer hailstorms are more common than you think.