Understanding the science behind petrichor and the smell of rain

Name: Understanding the science behind petrichor and the smell of rain
Uploaded: 2026-03-27T17:53:02Z
Duration: 1 min 2 s
Description: A meteorologist explains the science behind 'petrichor,' the distinct smell associated with rain. He details how natural oils from plants and geosmin (a compound produced by soil bacteria) contribute to this scent, and also discusses how lightning strikes create ozone particles, giving the air a sharp, clean smell similar to chlorine during a thunderstorm.

America's Weather Center · FWX · Mar 27, 2026 · 1m 2sSign Up Now

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A meteorologist explains the science behind 'petrichor,' the distinct smell associated with rain. He details how natural oils from plants and geosmin (a compound produced by soil bacteria) contribute to this scent, and also discusses how lightning strikes create ozone particles, giving the air a sharp, clean smell similar to chlorine during a thunderstorm.