What is one effect of the water cycle on weather patterns?

The water cycle has a significant impact on weather patterns, particularly in how it influences precipitation and temperature. As water evaporates from the Earth's surface, it transforms into vapor and rises into the atmosphere. This process contributes to the formation of clouds, which can lead to precipitation such as rain or snow when the clouds become heavy. Additionally, the distribution of water vapor in the atmosphere affects temperature as it plays a role in heat retention, with areas that are humid generally experiencing different temperature patterns compared to drier regions. Therefore, the water cycle is fundamental in determining not just when precipitation occurs, but how much and what type, as well as influencing overall climatic conditions.