Sateenpiikin

Sateenpiikin is a Finnish term that translates literally to "rain spike" or "rain needle." It refers to a specific type of precipitation that is characterized by very fine, needle-like raindrops. These drops are so small that they often appear as a misty or hazy rain, rather than distinct falling drops. Sateenpiikin is not a meteorological term with a precise definition but rather a descriptive colloquialism used to characterize a particular weather phenomenon.

This type of rain can occur under various atmospheric conditions, but it is often associated with stable air masses where condensation forms very small water droplets. While the individual drops are tiny, a significant accumulation can lead to wet conditions, making it difficult to stay dry without proper rain gear. Sateenpiikin can sometimes be mistaken for fog or mist, especially when visibility is reduced. The sensation of being rained on with sateenpiikin is often described as a gentle, pervasive dampness rather than a heavy downpour. It is a common type of rain experienced in many temperate climates, particularly during transitional seasons like spring and autumn.