Causes
When temperatures drop below the freezing point and there is sufficient water in clouds, snow can form. Snow storms can quickly disrupt inhabited areas if the ground temperature is cold enough for the snow to settle.
Consequences
As snow accumulates, road, rail, and air traffic may be affected or completely halted due to impassable routes or hazardous conditions. People can become trapped in vehicles, waiting for conditions to improve or for rescue. Power failures put infrastructure at risk, potentially leaving residents vulnerable to hypothermia. If temperatures remain low, snow persists unless physically removed, and compacted snow can form into ice, creating dangerous conditions and leading to injuries. Water sources may freeze, cutting off access to clean water or heat for residents.
If temperatures rise rapidly, large quantities of snow and ice may melt and cause flash floods, introducing a new threat to the affected area.
Satellite data
Satellites play a role in mapping and monitoring snow and ice conditions. They can help track sea ice, which poses hazards to vessels in polar regions where shipping routes are unpredictable. Satellite data aids in identifying risks for ships and locating vessels that may become trapped in ice.