What measurement characterizes heavy, wet snow?

Heavy, wet snow is characterized by a 10:1 or less snow-to-water ratio. This measurement indicates that for every 10 inches of snow, there is approximately 1 inch of water contained within it. The reason this ratio applies to heavy, wet snow is due to the higher moisture content found within such snow, resulting from warmer temperatures during the snowfall or from the snow being heavier and denser.

In contrast, a ratio of 20:1, 30:1, or a 15:10 ratio would suggest lighter, fluffier snow, which has less moisture content and is typically found in colder conditions. Therefore, a ratio of 10:1 or less accurately reflects the characteristics of heavy, wet snow, making it the correct choice in this context. Understanding this is crucial for assessing snow load on structures and planning for potential hazards during winter weather conditions.