Snow Weight
Snow Type |
Density Range |
pounds per cubic foot |
kilograms per cubic meter |
fresh & light |
3.12 – 4.37 lb/ft³ |
50 – 70 kg/m³ |
settled |
12.49 – 18.73 lb/ft³ |
200 – 300 kg/m³ |
wind-packed |
21.85 – 24.97 lb/ft³ |
350 – 400 kg/m³ |
wet & slushy |
24.97 – 51.82 lb/ft³ |
400 – 830 kg/m³ |
ice |
51.82 – 57.53 lb/ft³ |
830 – 920 kg/m³ |
- Fresh snow: When light snow falls freshly, it is usually fluffier and lighter than compacted snow.
- Settled snow: refers to snow that has been on the ground for a period of time, typically more compact and dense than fresh snow.
- Wind packed snow: Packed snow is created when wind, temperature, or human activity compresses fresh snow, making it more dense than fresh snow.
- Wet & slushy snow: This type of snow is denser and heavier than fresh snow because it contains more water.
- Ice: Ice is the most dense form of frozen precipitation.
