Snow: Formation, Forecasts, and Impacts

What Is Snow?

Snow is a form of solid atmospheric precipitation composed of individual ice crystals that grow in clouds and fall to accumulate on the ground. Source 1 These delicate crystals form high in the atmosphere when water vapor deposits directly onto ice nuclei. Once they become heavy enough, they descend and blanket the landscape, creating the white cover familiar during winter.

How Snow Forms and Its Properties

Snow requires temperatures below freezing and sufficient moisture in the atmosphere. Ice crystals grow by attracting more water vapor and can aggregate into larger flakes. The physical properties of snow—its low density, high reflectivity, and insulating ability—make it unique among precipitation types.

Current Snow Forecasts Across the U.S.

National 24-hour snowfall estimates show varying accumulation patterns depending on region. Source 2 These maps help residents anticipate how much snow may fall in their area and prepare accordingly.

Recent and Upcoming Winter Storms

A winter storm is forecast to bring up to 20 inches of snow and 60 mph winds to two U.S. states, causing major disruptions through Monday. Source 6 Travel delays and school closures are expected.

Late-Season Snow in the West

California and Nevada mountain areas could see up to 14 inches of snow at high elevations, with snow levels dropping to 4,500–5,000 feet. Source 7 Such late-season events remain possible even in May due to higher terrain and shifting weather patterns.

Snowfall Tracking and Data Resources

USA TODAY’s snowfall accumulation tracker and similar interactive maps show 24- to 72-hour and seasonal totals. Source 9 These tools allow users to monitor recent snowfall and compare current conditions with historical data.

FAQ

How is snow different from other forms of precipitation?
Snow forms when water vapor freezes into ice crystals in clouds, whereas rain is liquid water droplets.

Where can I find accurate snowfall forecasts for my area?
Use resources like the National Weather Service, Weather.com maps, or HowMuchWillItSnow.com for city-specific predictions.

Why is late-season snow still possible in May?
Higher elevations and unusual weather patterns can produce significant snowfall even in late spring.

How much snow is expected in the current winter storm?
Forecasts indicate up to 20 inches in some regions, accompanied by winds up to 60 mph.

What tools help track recent snowfall totals?
USA TODAY’s snowfall accumulation tracker and similar interactive maps show 24- to 72-hour and seasonal totals.

Does the stock ticker SNOW relate to actual snow?
No—SNOW is the ticker symbol for Snowflake Inc., a cloud data company, unrelated to weather.