What Causes Sleet?

Sleet forms when warm air near the ground melts falling snow, turning it into rain. However, as this rain passes through a layer of freezing air, it refreezes into small ice pellets before reaching the ground. This freezing layer can be located within a few thousand feet of the surface, causing the raindrops to solidify into sleet.

Characteristics of Sleet

• Appearance: Sleet appears as small, translucent ice pellets, similar to small beads of ice.
• Sound: When sleet hits surfaces, it can produce a distinct "tinkling" or "tapping" sound, different from the sound of rain or snow.

Impacts of Sleet

Sleet can create hazardous conditions, especially on roadways and sidewalks, as the ice pellets can accumulate and create slippery surfaces. Additionally, the weight of sleet accumulation can cause damage to trees, power lines, and other structures.

Study Guide for Sleet

1. Formation of Sleet: Understand the conditions required for sleet formation, including the presence of warm air, freezing air aloft, and the freezing of raindrops before reaching the ground.
2. Differentiating Sleet from Other Precipitation: Learn to distinguish sleet from other types of precipitation, such as snow, freezing rain, and hail, based on its appearance and characteristics.
3. Impacts of Sleet: Explore the effects of sleet on transportation, infrastructure, and the environment, and understand the measures taken to mitigate these impacts.
4. Safety Precautions: Study safety precautions and measures for dealing with sleet, including driving tips, sidewalk and walkway maintenance, and protective measures for trees and structures.