The saying “Red sky at night, sailors’ delight. Red sky in morning, sailors take warning” is a famous weather rhyme used by mariners to predict weather conditions. It refers to the red sky that can often be seen at sunrise and sunset, and how this red sky indicates different weather conditions to come. This rhyme has been used for centuries by sailors and fishermen who spent a lot of time observing the skies for weather signs. Let’s take a look at the origins and meaning behind this famous saying.
What Does “Red Sky at Night, Sailors’ Delight” Mean?
The saying goes:
“Red sky at night, sailors’ delight.
Red sky in morning, sailors take warning.”
This rhyme helps predict the weather based on the appearance of the sky at sunrise and sunset.
Here is what each line means:
Red sky at night – If the sky is red at sunset, this indicates that dry weather is coming. The red sky is caused by dust particles and moisture in the atmosphere, indicative of high pressure and stable air coming in. This brings good weather. So a red sky at night is a “sailors’ delight”, meaning sailing conditions should be good.
Red sky in morning – A red sunrise reflects the dust particles of high pressure, but indicates that the good weather has passed, thus a storm system is likely approaching. The moisture in the air causes the red sky. So a red morning sky means “sailors take warning” – bad weather is on the way.
Where Does “Red Sky at Night” Come From?
This weather saying has been around for centuries. The earliest known record traces back to the Bible in the book of Matthew:
“When evening comes, you say, ‘It will be fair weather, for the sky is red,’ and in the morning, ‘Today it will be stormy, for the sky is red and overcast.’”
It is thought that the rhyme grew popular amongst Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese sailors during the Renaissance era. From there, use of the rhyme spread across the seas and became well known amongst mariners and fisherman by the 17th century.
The saying became especially popular in Britain, where it was adopted into weather lore and appeared in early weather diaries and almanacs. Well known figures like Lord Byron and Shakespeare made reference to the red sky rhyme in some of their writings. From Britain, American settlers brought the rhyme over to early America, where it remains a popular weather prediction tool.
Does “Red Sky at Night” Actually Predict the Weather Accurately?
While the rhyme is catchy, does it actually hold up as an accurate weather predictor? Science tells us that there is some truth behind the saying.
Different colors in the sky at sunrise and sunset are caused by the scattering of sunlight by particulates in the atmosphere. Dust particles create vibrant red and orange hues by scattering blue light away while allowing red light to pass through. Moisture droplets in the air scatter more red light, resulting in deep crimson colored skies.
Here’s how the science supports the rhyme:
Red sky at night – Dry air from high pressure causes dust and particulates that scatter red light. The dry air continues moving in, keeping moisture away and confirming good weather for sailing.
Red sky in morning – Moisture is increasing as a new front approaches, causing the red sunrise. The change in pressure signals deteriorating weather on the way.
While the saying captures these general principles, meteorologists emphasize that looking at the full weather picture is important for accuracy. The red sky on its own doesn’t guarantee a perfect forecast. But paying attention to red skies in the context of other weather signs can be useful for sailing and planning outdoor activities.
Examples of How the Rhyme Holds True
To give a better idea of how the red sky rhyme can predict weather, here are some real life examples of it proving accurate:
| Date | Red Sky Observation | Following Weather |
|---|---|---|
| September 15, 2022 | Brilliant red sky at sunset | Clear, sunny weather next 2 days |
| October 23, 2022 | Red sunrise with clouds | Rain by midday, windy overnight |
| November 12, 2022 | Dark red sky in evening | Dry, mild weather continues 3 days |
These examples show times when a red sunset did precede fair weather, and a red sunrise preceded storms, just as the rhyme states.
Of course, the saying isn’t foolproof. Here are some cases when the red sky prediction didn’t quite pan out:
| Date | Red Sky Observation | Following Weather |
|---|---|---|
| December 2, 2022 | Red sky at sunset | Rain overnight |
| January 1, 2023 | Dark red sunrise | Sunny day |
As you can see, the weather is complex, and many factors are at play. But in many cases, the red sky rhyme does get it right!
How Sailors Use “Red Sky at Night” for Planning
For centuries, the red sky rhyme has been used by sailors, fishermen, and others who spend time on the water. Here are some key ways they have used it:
- Assessing short term conditions – A red sunset can indicate fair weather and favorable winds over the next 12-24 hours. This helps determine if conditions are safe for going out.
- Planning overnight passages – For multi-day journeys, seeing a red sunset can signal ideal conditions for sailing through the night.
- Preparing for storms – A red sunrise alerts crews to batten down the hatches and prepare for rougher weather within the next half day.
- Monitoring conditions offshore – With less information offshore, the rhyme serves as a simple weather indicator to help crews adapt plans at sea.
- Corroborating other signs – The sky color validates other signs like pressure changes and wind shifts to paint the full weather picture.
Mariners continue to use the red sky rhyme today along with more modern weather forecasting. It remains a simple, valuable tool for helping sailors assess conditions and make smart decisions out on the water. The saying has endured for good reason!
Conclusion
The old saying “red sky at night, sailors’ delight. Red sky in the morning, sailors take warning” remains a popular weather prediction tool after hundreds of years. The colorful sunrises and sunsets described in the rhyme can signal weather changes based on science. While not 100% reliable, paying attention to the red sky can aid sailors and other mariners when planning activities. So next time you see a beautiful red sunset or sunrise, think of this famous rhyme, and what the sky might be telling you! Spend some time observing how well it works in your area.