How to measure and report your data


NeRAIN Data - Online Report Forms

General information:
To fill out the form, click in the box you wish to enter data in and just type it in. If the question asks for you to choose something from a list, best answer for the question.

When you have completely finished filling out the form to the extent possible, you can click on the button which is labeled "submit" and send it in to the NeRAIN database.

The following Forms can be found under the Data entry section of the web page.

  • Intense Rain Report Form
  • Daily Precipitation Report Form
  • Hail Report Form
  • Multiple Day Accumulation Form
  • Multiple Zero Entry Form

Reporting your precipitation data to NeRAIN.

It is important to the NeRAIN project that you promptly and accurately report the precipitation data you have collected. NeRAIN scientists, sponsors and collaborators are most interested in precise daily rainfall totals and precise hail reports in which can be mapped, displayed, and put into use. In addition, reports of intense rainfall are helpful in determining locations of potential flooding. Intense rainfall reports are immediately transmitted to the National Weather Service.

  1. When do I report my readings?

    You are encouraged to watch your rain gauge anytime it is raining. However, to stay consistent in collecting the data, you are encouraged to take daily measurements of 24-hour total precipitation and report the data as close as you can to 7:00 AM each morning. A report time of 7:00 AM was chosen because it does not normally rain at this time during the summer months and most people are still at home. We understand that 7:00 AM won't always be possible, and it won't work for everyone. But the closer we are to having everyone report at the same time, the more consistent our maps and analyses will be. This becomes especially important if it is raining at the time you report the data. Always record the time when you did take your measurement so we know for sure.

  2. Reporting "Intense Rain."

    During events of heavy rainfall, "Intense Rain" reports can be submitted as a part of the precipitation data. The "Intense Rain" report data are used informally in projecting potential flooding in an area.

    Intense rain, for the purpose of this project, is defined as at least 0.50 inches of rain in one hour or less. However, we encourage you to report "Intense Rain" any time you believe the rain is falling hard enough to be a potential problem.

    Note: NeRAIN reports may not reach the National Weather Service in time to help them prepare flash flood warnings, so if dangerous flooding conditions are occurring, report first to the NWS or to your local law enforcement or emergency management officials.

Transmit all reports by the Internet:

  • Webpage reports:
    You may enter your data directly in the NeRAIN computer NeRAIN website, For additional information see the "Reporting Your Data" Then follow the instructions and fill out the appropriate data form. When you are done, check your entry for accuracy and then click on "Submit". Your reports will immediately be sent to NeRAIN and will appear in the data maps and reports.

  • In case of difficulties:

    If you have any questions or problems, please contact the appropriate NeRAIN coordinator