Winter Weather

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What is Doppler radar?

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A tool that uses the Doppler effect to produce fast-paced data about objects at a distance, critical for tracking precipitation and storm movement.

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What are three tools scientists use to detect winter weather?

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Satellite images, Radar, and Doppler radar.

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What are three types of winter storms?

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Blizzards, Ice storms, and Lake effect storms.

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What are types of winter precipitation?

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Snow flurries, Snow showers, Snow squalls, and Blowing snow.

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How do winter storms form?

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Winter storms form from the combination of cold air, lift, and moisture.

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What is a blizzard?

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A severe snowstorm characterized by strong sustained winds of 35 mph or more and low visibility.

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What is freezing rain?

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Rain that falls while temperatures are below freezing, causing the rain to freeze on contact with surfaces.

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What is lake effect snow?

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Snow that is produced when cold air moves over a warmer lake, picking up moisture and depositing it as snow on the leeward shores.

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What role does moisture play in winter storms?

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Moisture is essential for the formation of precipitation, which is a key component of winter storms.

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What is sleet?

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Small ice pellets that form when raindrops freeze before hitting the ground.