What type of precipitation does 'FZRA' indicate?

The abbreviation 'FZRA' specifically stands for "Freezing Rain." In METAR coding, the 'FZ' prefix indicates the presence of freezing conditions, while 'RA' denotes rain. Thus, when combined, 'FZRA' refers to rain that falls while the temperatures are at or below freezing, causing the rain to freeze upon contact with any surface, creating a layer of ice.

Recognizing this terminology is crucial for pilots and weather observers as it informs them about the potential for icy conditions that can affect flight safety and ground operations. The relevance of 'FZRA' illustrates not just the type of precipitation but its implications for visibility and road safety, making it a significant weather phenomenon to monitor.