During snow or frost, the gauge must be watched, and its contents melted by placing it in a warm room, either when the amount is to be measured, or the
Rain gauges are constructed of metal, usually copper, which, besides being readily workable, is little affected by atmospheric influences. If made of iron or zinc, they should be well japanned; if of copper, this is not so essential. The capacity of a gauge should be sufficient to contain at least the probable maximum fall of rain in a day at the locality. Those required for rainy districts must be of large size.