What is the practical reason for the pine tree to have its pine cones tighten during rain?

Question

Any botanists out there?

Answer 1

To protect the seeds inside the cone from getting wet and sprouting inside the cone instead of on the ground where they need to be. When the seeds are completely dry they will fall out but till then they hang on.

Answer 2

To prevent water from saturating the cone, creating mold and premature sprouting.

Answer 3

barbados chick is right, dang i was too slow.