What effect does precipitation have in military contexts?

Precipitation generally impairs both soil trafficability and visibility in military contexts. When rain or snow falls, the soil can become saturated, leading to muddy or soft ground conditions that hinder the movement of vehicles and troops. This can significantly slow down operations and affect the ability to maneuver effectively.

Visibility is also compromised during precipitation, particularly with rain, fog, or snow, which can obscure sightlines and reduce the effectiveness of surveillance, targeting, and navigation. These factors can influence mission planning and execution, often requiring adjustments to tactics to account for the diminished mobility and reduced visibility that comes with wet weather conditions. Therefore, understanding the impact of precipitation on operations is critical for effective tactical planning.