Calling All Chicago Snow Experts!

Can you identify each of these types of snow that you are likely to see this season?
Match these types of snow to their descriptions.

1. Flurries ______
2. Snow Showers _______
3. Snow Squalls ________
4. Blowing Snow _______
5. Blizzard _______
6. Sleet _______
7. Freezing Rain ______
8. “Lake-effect” Snow ______


A. It consists of raindrops that have frozen into little ice pellets before they reach the ground. It tends to bounce off surfaces, but it can accumulate on the ground and become a hazard to pedestrians and motorists.
B. These are common in the Great Lakes region. They consist of short, intense snow showers with strong gusty winds. Accumulation can be significant.
C. Light snow that falls for a short duration and does not accumulate on the ground much.
D. Wind-driven snow that reduces visibility and causes snowdrift formation. It can be snow that has already fallen to the ground and is being picked up by wind, or snow that is in the process of falling.
E. Winds that are over 35 miles per hour with snow, resulting in a reduction of visibility near zero.
F. Snow falling at varying intensities for brief periods of time. Some accumulation may occur.
G. This is caused by wind crossing Lake Michigan which takes the Lake’s moisture, and results in snow squalls in costal areas.
H. This consists of liquid rain that has fallen onto surfaces such as trees, sidewalks, and roadways that have temperatures below freezing. It produces ice coats on surfaces and even a small accumulation can be a hazard to motorists and pedestrians.


Answer Key: 1) C, 2) F, 3) B, 4) D, 5) E, 6) A, 7) H, 8) G