Steaming lakes and thundersnow: 4 questions answered about weird winter weather

An atmospheric scientist explains why water can do some strange-looking things at very cold temperatures, and what’s different about snowfalls on Mars.

By: Scott Denning, Colorado State University, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: February 23, 2026

Words: 933

Last Updated: 8 hours, 56 minutes ago

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By Scott Denning, Colorado State University

Editor’s note: Extreme cold weather can produce unusual phenomena, from so-called sea smoke to slushy ocean waves. As atmospheric scientist Scott Denning explains, these striking events are caused mainly by the behavior of water at very cold temperatures.

1. Why do lake and ocean waters appear to steam during cold snaps?

There are three phases, or states, of water: solid ice, liquid water and gaseous water vapor. Even in …

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