Precipitation is an element of weather. Precipitation refers to any form of water, such as rain, snow, sleet, or hail, that falls from the atmosphere to the Earth's surface. Precipitation is a critical component of the Earth's water cycle, as it helps to distribute water from the atmosphere to the land and oceans. Precipitation also plays a key role in the weather, as it can affect temperature, air pressure, and wind patterns. The amount and type of precipitation that falls in a specific area can have a major impact on the local climate, as well as the plants, animals, and people that live there.