5 Varieties Of Precipitation To Expect This Winter

It's been said this winter is going to be pretty bad. Prepare to brave the elements by getting to know a bit more about the weather coming your way.

Freezing Rain

Benjamin Tolleson / Via pinterest.com

It's called freezing rain when rain falls and the temperature is below freezing. Obviously this can lead to some seriously icy conditions so watch out when freezing rain is forecasted.

Sleet

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Sleet is a mixture of frozen and liquid water. It too can lead to icy conditions but is plenty slippery on its own. Make sure you're wearing waterproof footwear when sleet's in the forecast.

Hail

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Actual chunks of ice falling from the sky. Depending on the size of the hail, it can range from harmless to downright dangerous. Really anything bigger than a pellet is probably dangerous. Keep an eye on the conditions if you plan on being out when the forecast calls for hail.

Snow

Via picturesofwinter.net

Everyone's favorite wintery rain replacement, snow comes in all sorts of types. Some is light and fluffy, perfect for snowballs. On the other hand, some is heavy and wet and a pain to shovel. Whatever type of snow it is, remember that once it's been packed down it can become pretty slippery and that there may be ice lurking underneath even the most pristine looking snow.

More Snow

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There are rumors that this winter may be worse than the last. Maybe everyone should just get their snowsuits now. You can never be too prepared, right?