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Snow forms when water vapor in the atmosphere freezes into ice crystals.
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Snowflakes form in a variety of different shapes.
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Snow is a form of precipitation, other forms of precipitation are rain, hail and sleet.
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Light and fluffy snow is often called ‘powder’.
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Heavy snowfalls are often called ‘snowstorms’.
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Snowstorms with high winds are often called ‘blizzards’.
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Snow reflects a high level of ultraviolet radiation and can cause snow blindness (photokeratitis). Sunglasses, goggles and other eye protection help absorb the ultraviolet rays.
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A number of winter sports rely on snow, including skiing and snowboarding.
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Recreational activities such as snowball fights, tobogganing and making snowmen are also popular in the snow.
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Skis, sleds and snowmobiles are useful transport options through snow.
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Snow can lower visibility, making driving conditions dangerous.
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The highest snowfall ever recorded in a one year period was 31.1 meters (1224 inches) in Mount Rainier, Washington State, United States, between February 19, 1971 and February 18, 1972.
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Make a snowflake with this fun science experiment for kids.