What I learned was that snow is classified according to 1. visability 2. duration of time the "storm falls from the sky in a particular area" 3. if there are winds or not
Snow: falling ice composed of crystals in complex hexagonal forms. Snow forms when water vapor turns to ice WITHOUT turning liquid first - this process is called deposition.
Snowflakes: a bunch of snow crystals
Snow flurries: light showers of snow for a short period of time with no accumulation, at most a dusting of snow
Snow showers: snow that falls at different intensities for brief periods of time. Some accumulation can occur, but not always
Snow storm: a long storm of heavy snow, similar to a blizzard without the wind
Snow squall: a brief but intense falling of snow that reduces visibility and is usually has high winds, accumulation is expected with squalls
Snow grains: very tiny snow crystals - the ice equivalent of drizzle
Snow pellets: white ice particles that fall through cloud droplets, scientists call it "graupel"
Sleet: drops of rain or drizzle that fall into ice as they fall, smaller than 0.3 inches in diameter - in some parts of the country sleet is considered ice pellets & freezing rain
Freezing Rain: Falling rain that cools to below 32 degrees but does not turn to ice in the air, but rather when they hit anything.
Blizzards: winter storm with winds over 35 mph, visibility near zero. People are encouraged to stay home and avoid driving
Thundersnow: a thunderstorm where snow is the main form of precipitation
Whiteout: zero visibility
There is also terminology for when the snow hits the ground....but that is for another day.