Freezing Drizzle
Full Form of FZD
What is FZD?
Freezing drizzle (FZD) is a meteorological phenomenon where drizzle falls as liquid droplets that freeze upon contact with surfaces at or below freezing temperature, forming a thin layer of ice. In India, FZD is relatively rare but occurs in high-altitude regions such as the Himalayas, particularly in Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand during winter months. It is reported in aviation weather reports (METAR) and synoptic codes, where it is a hazard for aircraft icing and slippery roads. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) uses FZD in their weather bulletins to alert authorities about potential disruptions. Understanding FZD is important for pilots, road transport departments, and disaster management teams. For students appearing in exams like UPSC or SSC, knowledge of basic weather codes including FZD may appear in Geography or General Science sections. FZD differs from freezing rain in droplet size, with drizzle being smaller and more likely to freeze instantly upon impact, making it a subtle but dangerous winter weather condition.
FZD का फुल फॉर्म
हिमकारी बूंदाबांदी
Example
The IMD issued a warning for FZD over the higher reaches of the Dhauladhar range, advising commuters to exercise caution on icy roads.