It is hard to tell the difference between a snow shower and snow flurry when you are just looking at the sky. Both appear to be just a light dusting of snow, but there are some key differences that you should be aware of. In this post, we will go over the definition of each type of snow event and what you can expect from each one. We will also give tips on how to dress for both types of events so that you can stay warm and safe while enjoying winter weather.
What is Snow?
Snow is one of the most commonly occurring types of precipitation. Snow forms when cold air traps tiny water droplets, which freeze and turn into ice crystals. The crystals grow and become heavier, eventually falling from the sky as snowflakes.
- Snowflakes can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters, and no two flakes are exactly alike. Snowflakes typically fall from cumulonimbus clouds, which are large masses of thunderstorms.
- Snow generally falls in areas with frigid temperatures, such as Antarctica and the Arctic. It can also occur in high-altitude areas, such as mountains, during the winter months.
- In some cases, snow can even fall in low-lying areas during very cold weather. Snow typically melts when it comes into contact with warm air or ground, resulting in runoff that can eventually lead to rivers and lakes. Snow can also be melted intentionally for various purposes, such as making drinking water or generating electricity.
What are Snow Showers?
- Snow showers are a type of precipitation in which Snow falls from clouds in the form of showers. Snow showers are usually short-lived and not heavy, dumping an inch or less of Snow on the ground.
- Snow showers occur when There’s enough instability in the atmosphere for Snow to fall from clouds, but not enough for thunderstorms to develop. Snow showers are most common in cold weather months like January and February, but They can occur at any time of year if the temperature is cold enough.
- When Snow showers are forecast, It’s important to be prepared for sudden changes in weather conditions and possible road hazards. Snowfall can quickly create slippery conditions on roads, so take care when driving in areas where Snow showers have been forecast.
Differences between Snow and Snow Showers
Snow and Snow Showers are both forms of precipitation that occur in cold weather conditions. Snow is generally associated with accumulation, while Snow Showers tend to be more intermittent and often result in light accumulations. Snow is produced when the atmospheric temperature is below freezing and there is sufficient moisture present in the atmosphere in the form of water vapor.
Snow Showers, on the other hand, are usually the result of convective activity and often occur when there is a warm front passing through an area. The main difference between Snow and Snow Showers, then, is their respective formation processes. Snow is more likely to accumulate over time, while Snow Showers are more likely to be light and intermittent.
Conclusion
We’ve looked at the differences between snow and snow showers. Now it’s time to ask yourself, what do you need to know in order to be prepared for these weather events? Make sure you have all of your supplies ready, including food, water, and batteries. If you have a power outage, remember that candles and matches are a safe source of light. And finally, always stay informed on the latest weather conditions so you can take necessary precautions.
