A major winter storm is expected to move across Arkansas, bringing heavy snow to some areas and significant sleet and freezing rain to others.
With winter weather warnings posted statewide, many are asking what the difference is between snow, sleet, and freezing rain. Here’s a simple breakdown.
Snow
Snow occurs when temperatures from the clouds all the way to the ground stay at or below freezing. Because of that, precipitation remains snow as it falls and can build up quickly depending on how hard and how long it snows.
Freezing rain
Freezing rain happens when snow melts after falling through a warmer layer of air, then refreezes when it hits surfaces that are at or below freezing. This creates a layer of ice on roads, trees, power lines, and vehicles. Freezing rain is especially dangerous and can lead to power outages and extremely hazardous travel.
Sleet
Sleet forms when snow only partially melts as it falls through warm air, then refreezes before reaching the ground. By the time it lands, it’s a frozen raindrop that often bounces when it hits the surface. Like snow, sleet can accumulate on the ground and make roads slick.
What else to know
No matter what falls, all winter precipitation can create dangerous driving conditions. Whatever accumulates during this storm is not expected to melt quickly. Roads are likely to remain snow or ice covered through the weekend and possibly into Monday, as temperatures are expected to stay below freezing from Friday evening through Tuesday afternoon.
In areas that see significant ice buildup from freezing rain, combined with gusty winds, downed trees and power lines are possible. Widespread power outages could occur, especially in south and southeast Arkansas.
Residents are urged to use caution, avoid travel if possible, and prepare for prolonged winter conditions.
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