But Taylors Lakes student Daniel Santopietro uses a rainy day to help Melbourne Water get a picture of rain patterns and predict possible floods.
“Recording rain, I think, is the way we can predict our weather in the future, and I’ve always enjoyed studying weather,” the weather-watcher said.
Daniel is the latest recruit for Melbourne Water, which has commissioned volunteers to keep records, adding to the current electronic methods available.
The budding meteorologist joins more than 300 new volunteers taking part in the data collection.
As part of the program Daniel monitors and records rainfall collected in a gauge at his school, Overnewton Anglican College in Taylors Lakes.
His work will complement the existing electronic rain gauge network and will give Melbourne Water a better understanding of rain patterns, especially after heavy storms.
Daniel has been enthusiastic about the project since his teacher Liz Richards suggested he get involved.
“He was really excited by the prospect and I’m sure he’ll enjoy learning about the weather and rainfall patterns as much as I have,” Ms Richards said.
Daniel will play an important part in predicting weather and conserving the environment, according to Melbourne Water.
“Our network of private rain gauge operators provide us with invaluable information,” said Paul Rasmussen, Melbourne Water flood warning and mapping team leader.
Mr Rasmussen said the information “helps us to understand rainfall distribution and patterns and to assist us with our flood and drought responses, as well as maintaining environmental flows in rivers and creeks for platypus, fish and frogs”.
“Maintaining comprehensive long-term records is also critical to understanding other trends such as climate change and we use this data in planning for the future,” he said.
