How does weather affect evidence at a crime scene?

Weather can significantly influence the physical state and condition of evidence found at a crime scene. Various weather conditions, such as rain, snow, heat, and humidity, can alter the integrity of evidence. For instance, precipitation can wash away biological samples or dilute chemical residues, while heat can cause decomposition to occur more rapidly in organic evidence. Additionally, freezing temperatures can preserve certain types of evidence but may also cause other forms of damage, like cracking. The changing environmental conditions can lead to irreversible changes that compromise the evidence's reliability and ability to provide information about the crime. Understanding these impacts is crucial for investigators to effectively document and manage the scene, ensuring that valuable evidence is preserved as accurately as possible.