Significant accumulations of ice are defined as one-quarter inch or greater. This can cause trees, utility and power lines to fall down causing the loss of power and communication. Rain drops that freeze into ice pellets before reaching the ground. Sleet usually bounces when hitting a surface and does not stick to objects. However, it can accumulate like snow and cause a hazard to motorists.
Heavy sleet occurs when a half of an inch of sleet accumulates.
Snow falling at varying intensities for brief periods of time. Some accumulation is possible. Intense, but of limited duration, periods of moderate to heavy snowfall, accompanied by strong, gusty surface winds and possible lightning. A watch is used when the risk of a hazardous weather event has increased significantly, but the occurrence, location and timing are still uncertain. A warning is used for conditions posing a threat to life or property.