Summoning the Storm

In medieval lore, the Tempestarii were magi, specifically weather-makers, dwelling amongst the common people, who possessed the power to raise or prevent storms at will. For this reason, anyone reputed as a weather-maker was the subject of respect, fear and hatred in rural areas. Church authorities gave credence to the belief by stating that God permitted the Devil and witches to perform these acts as punishment for the wickedness of the world. However, the Church prohibited superstitious remedies against witchcraft such as storm-raising because the remedies themselves were of pagan origin, and it prescribed prayer, sacraments and the invocation of the name of God instead (although some traditional remedies like charms were also sanctioned).

Found on "Witchcraft: A Guide To The Misunderstood and Maligned"