This cross section of the atmosphere, shows exactly what is happening when certain types of winter precipitation is occuring. When all layers of the atmosphere are above 32°F, the precipitation will be rain. Freezing rain occurs when the mid and upper levels of the atmosphere are above freezing, but the temperature at the surface is below 32°F. Sleet occurs when we have warm air in the upper levels of the atmosphere, but in the mid and lower levels the temperature is below freezing. It falls as rain in the upper levels, but then those rain drops freeze as they reach the mid and lower levels, and we call this sleet. Finally snow occurs when all levels of the atmosphere are below 32°F. Snow can also fall when the temperature at the surface is slightly above freezing, this snow tends to melt as it makes contact with the ground.

Sometimes winter storms are accompanied by strong winds, which can cause blizzard conditions. Blinding wind-driven snow and a dangerous wind chill are the products of a strong wind. Wind chills of -40°F can easily freeze skin tissue in a matter of seconds.

Extremely cold temperatures can cause millions of dollars in damage from damaged crops to frozen pipes. Rivers can freeze over preventing ships from transporting their goods. This causes businesses to lose money. Ice jams can also form on rivers and cause flooding.

The most disrupting element of a winter storm is the heavy snowfall. It can immobilize a region and paralyze a city, stranding motorists, and stopping the flow of supplies.