Can You Smell When Rain Is Coming?

The world is firmly divided into two camps—those whose nose can detect when rain is on the way and those who think that capability is utter nonsense. 

While not everyone can smell the rain before it begins, there is actually scientific evidence that some people do possess this capability. Those with good olfactory senses are often able to pick up a scent that has, according to Scientific American, a “sweet, pungent zing” that's been likened to chlorine bleach.

 This is owed to ozone, which can be emitted from things like fertilizer and paint, as well as natural sources. Ozone can be created by an electrical charge that signals an oncoming storm.

 Downdrafts from a thunderstorm can carry the ozone created at high altitudes down to ground level and into our noses. While humans' ability to smell ozone differs, there are people who can pick up on even slight traces and know that it's probably time to grab an umbrella.

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