How do Pittsburghers perceive the patter of rain?
By Anne Victoria Nasevich
How you perceive the sounds of rain might depend on where you live. Nevadans might greet rain with excitement since it’s only a seasonal event. For those living near the coast, rain might seem threatening with the risk of flooding. Since rain is so common in Pittsburgh, with an average of 151 days of precipitation annually, we may take it for granted and not be attuned to the ways we feel when hearing the patter of rain.
Research suggests that humans have a wide range of emotional responses to rain, and no two responses seem to be alike. A study from 2011 concluded that rain sounds assist relaxation and sleep. By contrast, psychotherapist Tina Tessina claims that rain compels people to feel anger, dreariness, coldness, and sadness. Furthermore, a psychology study from 2019 asserts that rain sounds can be a source of happiness and joy.
Some Pittsburghers may feel concern when they hear rain due to the threat of flooding, since 21.1% of Pittsburgh properties are at risk for flooding. Some may associate rain with seasonal blues because it limits their sun exposure. According to UPMC psychiatrist Dr. Lawson Bernstein, the incidence of seasonal affective disorders in Pittsburgh is among the highest in the country. Is it possible that some Pittsburghers have positive responses to rain sounds?
Frankie Mae Pace Park is a space that was built with rain in mind, and embraces precipitation. Notice the way the drainage system is artistically incorporated into this elevated park. A spiral drain is playful and whimsical, and the decorative metal plates look like droplets that form into streams. Rainwater is also incorporated into the park infrastructure, suggesting that rain is an essential and welcome part of the ecosystem. The stormwater is directed to the flower beds and trees. Describing the park’s drainage system, the Sports and Exhibition Authority of Pittsburgh explained that the trees not only purify the water even further, but the roots direct the water flow to lessen the risk of flooding.
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The design of Frankie Pace Park reflects the frequency of rainfall in Pittsburgh every year. Rain sounds can evoke a broad range of feelings in different people. Listen to this audio clip of rainfall and consider: how do you respond to the sounds of rain?
Image Credit: Nicole Vilkner
Sound clip created by Anne Victoria Nasevich
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