Brrrr....Frozen Precipitation

With temperatures dropping across South Carolina this week, we thought it might be a good time to remind everyone that while frozen precipitation isn't all that common in SC, it is still important to record. Accurate and timely measurements of frozen precipitation can be extremely important to your state climate office as well as local National Weather Service offices, public works departments, school systems, media outlets, and other scientists. CoCoRaHS provides detailed information about measuring both freezing rain and snow with your precipitation gauge. Please note that if you are expecting any type of frozen precipitation in your area, you should remove the funnel and inner measuring tube from your gauge, as this not only allows a more accurate reading of frozen precipitation but it can prevent damage to your gauge. Because frozen precipitation can cause gauges to crack, please make sure to empty out any frozen precipitation once you've completed and submitted your measurements. In the excitement and anticipation that usually accompanies frozen precipitation in the Palmetto State, don't forget to check those gauges!