Infantry Drills

A-62: Precipitation



Previous: A-60: Winds

A-62. Precipitation affects soil trafficability, visibility, and functioning of many electrooptical systems. Heavy precipitation can reduce the quality of supplies in storage. Heavy snow cover can reduce the efficiency of many communication systems as well as degrade the effects of many munitions and air operations. The leader identifies critical factors such as type, amount, and duration of precipitation. Some precipitation questions to answer include:

  • How will precipitation (or lack of it) affect the mobility of the unit or of enemy forces?
  • How can precipitation (or lack of it) add to the unit achieving surprise?

Next: A-63: Cloud Cover

Go Back To: U.S. Army FM 3-21.8: The Infantry Rifle Platoon and Squad