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How Weather Can Affect Your Grilling Experience

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It can be difficult to maintain lower cooking temperatures on very hot days. The actual temperature of the grill may actually hover above the temperature you set the grill to. (Getty Images)

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It can be difficult to maintain lower cooking temperatures on very hot days. The actual temperature of the grill may actually hover above the temperature you set the grill to. (Getty Images)

Before you fire up the grill, you’ve got to factor in the forecast - and it's not just summer storms that can ruin the party. Weather of all kinds can affect how long your burgers, sausages and veggies need to stay on the grill, and at what temperature. Here’s how to deal with the various weather that might move in on your next barbecue.

Grilling In Heat

Some foods need to be grilled at lower temperatures, and cooking on very hot days can make that difficult. The actual temperature of the grill may heat beyond what you set it to. This means that you may need to shorten your grilling time or consider recipes with a higher grilling temperature. You may also consider moving your grill out of the sun and into a shady spot, but make sure to do this before lighting the grill. Grilling early in the day or cooking overnight are also options for low-and-slow cuts, such as brisket and pork butt.

Grilling In The Rain

The grill may take a little longer to preheat in the rain. You can position a canopy or large umbrella to cover you and the grill, but make sure lightning isn’t in the forecast. Grillers should keep the lid closed as much as possible to maintain heat. As moisture settles on the lid, it may lower the internal temperature of the grill, making for a longer cook time. Pre-cooking items in the oven can shorten your cooking time if you're concerned about the grill taking too long.

Grilling In The Wind

Wind can affect charcoal and gas grills, blowing out flames and making the grill difficult to light. Grillers may find it helpful to orient gas grills so that the wind is perpendicular to the flow of the gas through the burner tubes. Keep the lid down as much as possible to protect the flames from the wind.

Charcoal grills may require extra briquettes during windy days in order to maintain a consistent temperature. Be prepared with extra fuel nearby. Block the wind with the lid when opening to avoid ashes blowing onto the food. If winds are very strong, it may not be safe to use your charcoal grill.

Grilling In The Cold

Keep an extra propane tank or charcoal close when grilling in the cold, as cook times could be longer and the grill will require more fuel to maintain a consistent temperature. The grill will also likely take more time to preheat, according to FoodNetwork.com, just like in the rain. To lessen your time spent in the cold, be sure to keep the lid shut as much as possible. A wireless grilling thermometer will help you monitor the grill’s temperature without having to remove the lid constantly.