běi jīng北京xià下dà xuě大雪：wèi shén me为什么xī biān西边de的xuě雪gèng更dà大？
On January 17th, Beijing experienced snowfall.
Many residents noticed that the snow in the western mountainous areas of Beijing was especially heavy, and the snowflakes were larger than usual.
According to meteorological data, the average snowfall across Beijing was not very heavy, but the snow depth in western areas like Fangshan and Mentougou reached 2 to 6 centimeters.
Why is the snow heavier in the west?
Experts explain that it is due to the "terrain."
This snowfall was mainly caused by moisture brought by easterly winds.
When the moist easterly wind blows toward Beijing, it is blocked by the mountains in the west.
The moisture gathers in front of the mountains and rises, making it easier to form thick snowfall in the western mountainous areas.
Many people are also curious why the snowflakes this time are as large as "goose feathers."
This is related to the temperature of the cloud layer.
At that time, the cloud temperature was between minus 10 and minus 20 degrees Celsius, which is very suitable for snowflakes to grow quickly.
As the snowflakes fall, they collide and stick together, forming beautiful large snowballs.
Because these large snowflakes contain a lot of air and have a loose structure, the snow on the ground looks deeper than usual.
Currently, Beijing has issued warnings for low temperatures and icy roads.
The meteorological department reminds everyone to keep warm when going out and to pay special attention to traffic safety when driving to prevent slipping.