Pokémon Scarlet and Violet: When and where does it rain? – Explained

Rain is an important weather mechanic in Pokémon, as it’s tied to both the strength of certain moves and specific evolutions. Those looking to complete the Pokédex or to acquire specific Pokémon will eventually need rain to do so. Here’s our guide on when and where does it rain in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet.

Note: For more information about the game, check out our Pokémon Scarlet and Violet guides and features hub.

When and where does it rain in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet?

The main reason most players want it to rain is to evolve Sliggoo. The slimy snail Pokémon can evolve into the mighty dragon that is Goodra at level 50. However, triggering this evolution requires the overworld to be either rainy or foggy.

Unfortunately, there is no way to predict or control rain in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet. In the previous generation, players could change the time on their Switch to force specific weather conditions. However, in Generation Nine, weather is tied to an in-game timer rather than your Switch’s time.

Rain Dance only causes rain to appear during the battle and not the overworld. Screenshot by PC Invasion

Furthermore, you cannot use Rain Dance to force the necessary conditions. Although Rain Dance will cause it to rain during the battle, this rain will immediately stop once the battle ends. Since the ‘check for evolutions’ requirements isn’t done until after the battle ends, Rain Dance won’t trigger the evolution.

The best way to force rain is to focus on other things whilst exploring. Just be sure to avoid Asado Desert, Area Zero, and Glaseado Mountain as it never rains in these locations. Once it eventually begins to rain in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet you’ll want to level up your Sliggoo immediately. It can be worth carrying around a Rare Candy to make sure you don’t miss your chance before the rain passes.