What is sleet?

Sleet is accurately defined as rain that freezes into solid ice pellets before it reaches the ground. When rain falls through a layer of cold air, it can freeze into small pellets of ice, resulting in the formation of sleet. This weather phenomenon often occurs during winter weather and can lead to hazardous conditions, as these ice pellets can accumulate and create slippery surfaces. Sleet is distinct from other forms of precipitation; it is not simply melted snow, nor is it soft hail or ice that forms on bodies of water. Instead, it is specifically the result of liquid rain freezing during its descent through the atmosphere. This understanding of sleet can provide insights into weather patterns and the impact of various types of precipitation on road conditions and safety.