Interesting, we have that saying in Germany too. At least amongst sailors from northern Germany. It does not rhyme though but is a direct translation. My wild guess would be that sailors brought it here from Sweden. Heh!

Heh, the highest temperature ever recorded in Sweden is 100F/38C. Looks like in most parts the average winter temperature is warmer than Chicago. Sounds like you guys have it pretty easy.

Det finns inget dåligt väder, bara dåliga kläder. :-)

I've always thought that it was a common saying in Britain, notorious for its bad weather. IIRC the world's rainiest place is some island off the coast of Scotland.

No - not even close for total amount of precipitation.

However, the Scottish Highlands do excel in miserable drizzle that falls continuously for days, weeks and probably months ("dreich").

And yes, I am Scottish and have spent a lot of time outdoors!

By "rainiest" I did mean "highest number of rainy days" rather than "highest amount of precipitation".

That's the same reason Seattle has it's rainy reputation even though it gets fewer inches of rain than most East Coast cities.

Is there an "official" name for that statistic?

"misery"

I remember watching Billy Connolly doing a stand-up show years ago where he went on a massive rant about people complaining about the weather.

He rounded of his rant with the statement: "There's no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong clothes."

To this day I consider that quote to be one of my all-time favourites as it really helps me smile whilst most people are depressed over the fact that it's cold and wet.

Presumably the "Where dae ye think ye are? Benidorm?" rant :-)

I grew up in Florida and lived in Sweden for a couple years. Even as a kid I disliked Florida because you quickly run out of clothes to take off. Even in a bathing suit it's sweltering. While I don't find winter weather pleasant, I just put on more clothes until it's bearable.