What is Freezing Rain?
FOX 32’s Mike Caplan breaks down the science behind freezing rain and its potential impact on the Chicago area.
How Freezing Rain Forms
Freezing rain is a type of weather phenomenon that occurs when snow develops in the clouds and starts to fall. On its way down, the snow melts into raindrops due to warm temperatures aloft. However, if there is a layer of sub-freezing air near the ground, the rain freezes on contact with objects like traffic signs, power lines, trees, and pavement, forming a glaze of ice.
Freezing rain is different from sleet, which forms when raindrops encounter a thicker layer of colder air before reaching the ground. Sleet is crunchy on the ground compared to the smooth glaze of freezing rain.
Rarity of Chicago Ice Storms
True “ice storms” are rare in Chicagoland, but it doesn’t take much ice to cause significant travel problems. Even a trace of freezing rain can make untreated surfaces into skating rinks, including sidewalks and driveways.
To create downed limbs and power outages, at least 1⁄4″ of ice accretion is needed. These events don’t happen often in the Chicago area as snow is a much more common occurrence.
Conclusion
Freezing rain is a unique and potentially hazardous weather phenomenon that requires understanding and preparation. By learning about how it forms and its potential impact, residents of the Chicago area can better prepare themselves for potential ice storms and take necessary precautions to stay safe.
FAQs
Q: What is freezing rain? A: Freezing rain is a type of weather phenomenon that occurs when snow develops in the clouds and starts to fall, melting into raindrops due to warm temperatures aloft, but freezing on contact with objects near the ground.
Q: How does freezing rain form? A: Freezing rain forms when there is a layer of sub-freezing air near the ground that causes the rain to freeze on contact with objects.
Q: Is freezing rain common in the Chicago area? A: True “ice storms” are rare in Chicagoland, but it doesn’t take much ice to cause significant travel problems.
Q: How much ice is needed to cause damage? A: At least 1⁄4″ of ice accretion is needed to create downed limbs and power outages.
Q: How can I prepare for freezing rain? A: You can prepare for freezing rain by staying informed about weather forecasts, having a winter emergency kit ready, and taking necessary precautions to stay safe, such as wearing warm clothing and using salt or sand on icy surfaces.