What is the term used for precipitation that remains in a liquid state until it freezes on contact?

Freezing rain is the term used for precipitation that falls in a liquid state and freezes upon contact with cold surfaces, creating a layer of ice. This phenomenon occurs when warm air aloft carries the rain into a colder air mass near the surface. As the raindrops fall, they remain liquid until they hit a surface that is below freezing, at which point they freeze immediately, leading to an accumulation of ice that can be hazardous on roadways, power lines, and trees.

In contrast, snow is formed from crystalline ice that falls from clouds in a solid state, sleet consists of ice pellets that form when raindrops freeze before reaching the ground, and hail is defined as balls or irregular lumps of ice that develop within thunderstorms. Understanding the characteristics and implications of these weather phenomena is essential for effective utility arborist work, especially concerning tree safety and power line management.