What is the importance of weather in the book, Weathering: A Novel?

Weather is symbolic of lack of control. Ada likely would not have returned to the house if the river had not risen and killed her mother. When she does return, she remembers all the hardships they faced from thunderstorms, snow, and ice. She understands the harshness of the winters and must come to an understanding that she is unable to control all that is around her, including her emotions.