Between the Polar Vortex, El Nino, derecho and other great fun names, I thought it maybe a good time to review some standard terms that are associated with winter weather and what they really mean.
Freezing rain – Rain that freezes when it hits the ground, creating a coating of ice on roads, walkways, trees and power lines.
Sleet – Rain that turns to ice pellets before reaching the ground. Sleet also causes moisture on roads to freeze and become slippery.
Winter weather advisory – Winter weather conditions are expected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous. When caution is used, these situations should not be life-threatening.
Winter storm watch – A winter storm is possible in your area. Tune in to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Weather Radio, commercial radio or local television for more information.
Winter storm warning – A winter storm is occurring or will soon occur in your area.
Blizzard warning – Sustained winds or frequent gusts to 35 miles per hour or greater and considerable amounts of falling or blowing snow (reducing visibility to less than a quarter mile) are expected to prevail for a period of three hours or longer.
Frost/freeze warning – Below-freezing temperatures are expected.
Thanks for reading. I prefer sunny and 70 degrees, how about you?
