Sprühregen

Sprühregen is a meteorological phenomenon characterized by very fine water droplets that appear to fall like a mist or spray. These droplets are smaller than those found in conventional rain. The formation of sprühregen typically occurs when atmospheric conditions lead to the condensation of water vapor into very small particles. This can happen in environments with high humidity and relatively cool temperatures, but without the necessary conditions for larger raindrop formation.

The intensity of sprühregen is generally low. It may feel like a light dampening of surfaces rather than a noticeable shower. Visibility can be reduced during sprühregen, similar to fog, though the droplets are distinct and falling. This type of precipitation is often observed in coastal areas, near large bodies of water, or in mountainous regions where air masses can cool and condense.

Distinguishing sprühregen from fog or drizzle is based on the size of the water droplets and their trajectory. While fog consists of suspended water droplets that do not fall, and drizzle has larger droplets than sprühregen, sprühregen's small, falling droplets place it in a distinct category. The term "sprühregen" is German and translates directly to "spray rain." In English meteorological contexts, it is often encompassed by the broader term "drizzle" or described as "fine drizzle." Its impact on weather conditions is minimal, primarily affecting surface moisture and visibility.