The distinction between a “flurry” and regular snow often causes confusion in winter weather forecasts. While many people use the term casually, meteorologists employ “flurry” as a precise term to describe a specific type of precipitation event. Understanding this technical difference is important for accurately interpreting weather reports. The term does not refer to a unique type of frozen particle but rather describes the intensity, duration, and resulting accumulation of snowfall. This classification helps forecasters communicate the expected impact of light winter precipitation.
Meteorological Classification of Flurries
A snow flurry is a form of snow. It is not a distinct precipitation type, such as freezing rain or sleet, which are defined by the physical state of the water when it reaches the ground. Instead, the term “flurry” is used by forecasters to describe the overall nature of the snowfall event itself. The National Weather Service (NWS) defines a snow flurry as intermittent, light snow that yields little to no measurable accumulation on the ground. The frozen water vapor is still composed of ice crystals that combine to form snowflakes, just like in a heavy snowstorm. The classification is primarily concerned with the precipitation’s intensity and its effect on the environment. The use of this specific term conveys minimal impact and a short-lived event.
Defining Characteristics of a Flurry
The defining features of a flurry are its light intensity and transient nature. Flurries typically last for a short duration, often only a few minutes, before the precipitation ceases. Because of this briefness and lightness, the amount of snow that reaches the ground is minimal, usually resulting in only a trace amount or a light dusting. A trace amount is precipitation too small to be measured with a standard ruler or gauge. This means the snow melts or evaporates quickly, making accumulation negligible on most surfaces. Flurries may momentarily reduce visibility, but they do not persist long enough to cause the widespread whiteout conditions associated with more intense winter weather.
How Flurries Differ from Snow Showers
While flurries are light and non-accumulating, snow showers represent a more vigorous form of convective winter precipitation. Snow showers are characterized by snow falling at varying intensities over brief periods, and they often result in measurable accumulation. This accumulation can sometimes happen quickly, though the duration is still short compared to a large-scale, continuous snowstorm. A snow squall is an even more intense, localized event. Squalls are brief but powerful bursts of heavy snow accompanied by strong, gusty winds, leading to a sudden and severe reduction in visibility. Therefore, the progression from flurry to shower to squall represents an increase in intensity, duration, and the potential for disruptive accumulation.