Unusual Spring Weather: Frozen Precipitation Expected in Northern Illinois and Northwest Indiana
Introduction to Frozen Precipitation
It may be several weeks into spring, but frozen precipitation could fall in parts of northern Illinois and northwest Indiana Wednesday. According to a notice sent out by the National Weather Service, showers that are developing over the area Wednesday could produce a form of precipitation known as “graupel” as they move through the region.
What is Graupel?
There are several different types of frozen precipitation, but graupel is distinctive as it forms “soft, small pellets” when water droplets freeze onto a snowflake, according to the National Weather Service. They are extremely delicate, and typically disintegrate when they are handled. Some of the showers moving across northern Illinois & extreme northwest Indiana are producing graupel this afternoon! So if you see mushy icy pellets falling from the sky today, that is what it is! pic.twitter.com/MXlryNjTPy— NWS Chicago (@NWSChicago) April 9, 2025
Comparison with Hail and Sleet
Hail largely forms by the same process, but differs in its size, as it must be a minimum of 0.2 inches in diameter, whereas graupel must be below that threshold. Sleet is another form of frozen precipitation, typically occurring when snow melts as it falls toward the ground. That water droplet then refreezes, forming sleet or freezing rain.
Weather Forecast for the Chicago Area
The Chicago area will likely have to bear at least two more days of colder-than-normal temperatures, but highs should finally climb into the 50s by Saturday and then into the upper-50s or low-60s by Sunday, according to forecast models. Another brief cooldown is expected next week, but that won’t be quite as bad, with readings in the upper-40s or low-50s by Monday, according to forecast models.
Understanding the Weather Patterns
The weather patterns in the Chicago area can be quite unpredictable, especially during the spring season. It is not uncommon for the region to experience a mix of warm and cold temperatures, as well as different types of precipitation. The National Weather Service plays a crucial role in monitoring these weather patterns and providing updates to the public.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Chicago area can expect some unusual spring weather, with frozen precipitation expected in parts of northern Illinois and northwest Indiana. It is essential to stay informed about the latest weather updates and forecasts to plan accordingly. By understanding the different types of frozen precipitation, such as graupel, hail, and sleet, we can better appreciate the complexities of the weather patterns in our region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is graupel?
A: Graupel is a type of frozen precipitation that forms when water droplets freeze onto a snowflake, creating soft, small pellets.
Q: How is graupel different from hail?
A: Graupel is different from hail in terms of size, with graupel being smaller than 0.2 inches in diameter.
Q: What is sleet?
A: Sleet is a type of frozen precipitation that forms when snow melts as it falls toward the ground and then refreezes.
Q: What can we expect from the weather forecast in the Chicago area?
A: The Chicago area can expect colder-than-normal temperatures for the next two days, followed by a warm-up into the 50s and 60s over the weekend.
Q: How can I stay informed about the latest weather updates?
A: You can stay informed about the latest weather updates by checking the National Weather Service website or social media accounts, such as Twitter.
