How a pine cone can help you predict the weather

Name: Pine cone weather: what open and closed scales actually mean
Uploaded: 2026-10-13T18:26:05.853Z
Duration: 33 s
Channel: The Weather Channel
Description: Pine cone scales open in dry air and close as humidity rises. The science of hygroscopy, explained.

ByMadie Homan,Caroline AylwardandJenn Jordan•

October 14, 2026

Updated: October 14, 2026, 5:52 am EDTPublished: October 14, 2026, 5:39 am EDT

Pine cone scales open in dry air and close as humidity rises. It’s an actual scientific effect called hygroscopy. Here's how to read one and what it can tell you.