Concept in Definition ABC

When the sky is clear at night, it is usual that the next morning the appearance of the sun does not prevent the heat from dispersing into space. When this happens, there is a notable decrease in the temperature which can cause ice formation. This meteorological phenomenon is called a frost.

On the contrary, if the sky is covered with clouds during the night, the heat from the sun the next morning will not be dispersed into space and temperatures will be higher.

The dangers of frost

Sometimes this phenomenon is accompanied by snow and this circumstance significantly hinders the movement of vehicles. On the other hand, ice on the road can cause all kinds of problems: slower and dangerous driving, risk of falls, loss of crops, deaths of livestock, health problems in those who sleep on the street or the stoppage of some activities everyday.

Frost produces icicles

One of the possible effects of frost is the production of icicles. An icicle is a cone-shaped chunk of ice that is created when dripping water freezes as a result of frost. You could say that it is an ice stalactite.

Farmers and ranchers are the groups most affected by the frosts

The agricultural and livestock sector is probably the most affected by this meteorological phenomenon. For this reason farmers and ranchers activate alarm systems to detect the announcement of a frost and, subsequently, take action measures to combat it.

From the point of view of farming, there are two types of frost: white and black. The former occur when there is high humidity that, after lowering the temperature, the water condenses and creates a white blanket at dawn.

Black frosts occur when there is a low level of humidity but there is no condensation of water and this type of frost is the one that causes the greatest damage to crops. The effect of frost on crops depends on several factors: the time of year when they occur, the temperature level and its velocity descent.

To prevent frost, horticulturists can use heaters with some type of fuel, the heating of the air through roofs or heating of crops through irrigation. These measures prevent freezing of crops.

Photos: Fotolia - A / Magdal3na