Snow is made of unique crystalline structures, with varying shapes and sizes. Thunderstorms can occur during snowstorms, adding an extra layer of excitement. Learn about the science behind snow formation and why some areas get more snow than others. Explore the extreme conditions faced by meteorologists at the top of Mount Washington, where frigid temperatures and high winds are common.
Snow is formed from ice crystals in the atmosphere, reflecting light to appear white.
Salt on roads during snow lowers freezing temperature to prevent icy conditions.
Deep dives
Snow Formation and Crystal Structure
Snow is formed from water vapor freezing into ice crystals in the atmosphere. Ice crystals start to form around particulate matter like dust or pollen, growing into flakes heavy enough to fall as snow. Different types of snowflakes, such as hexagonal plates, needles, columns, and dendrites, are formed based on temperature conditions. The ice crystals reflect light, appearing white due to reflecting all colors in the spectrum.
Importance of Salt on Snowy Roads
Salt is used on roads during snow to lower the freezing temperature of water and melt ice crystals back into water. This process reduces slippage on roads caused by compacted snow turning into ice. The use of salt helps maintain road safety and prevents the formation of hazardous driving conditions.
Mountains and Snow Accumulation
Mountains force air to rise, creating conditions for cloud formation, rain, and snow. Rising air cools and condenses water vapor into precipitation. The elevated terrain of mountains leads to extreme weather conditions and heavier snowfall due to forced air movement and cooling at higher altitudes.
Working as a Meteorologist on Mount Washington
Meteorologists on Mount Washington experience extreme weather conditions with high winds and freezing temperatures. They must wear multiple layers of clothing, including balaclavas and ski goggles, to protect against wind chill. Meteorologists at the summit manually record weather due to extreme conditions that automated instruments cannot withstand.
How is snow made and what’s it made out of? Why is it white and sparkly? Why do snowflakes look different? Can snowstorms have thunder? Why do some places, like mountains, get more snow than others? Answers to all of your questions about snow, with Seth Linden, who works for the National Center for Atmospheric Research in Boulder, Colorado. Plus we hear what it’s like to live at the top of Mount Washington, famous for its extreme weather, from Alexandra Branton, a meteorologist who works at the observatory at the top of the mountain, even during the frigid winter.