Definition

Noun: 1. Meteorological phenomenon: A visible streak or shaft of precipitation, such as rain, snow, or ice crystals, that falls from a cloud but evaporates or sublimates completely before reaching the ground.

Usage

• As a subject: "Virga is often seen beneath high-altitude clouds."
• As an object: "The pilot observed virga in the distance."
• With descriptive adjectives: "Wispy virga descended from the altocumulus cloud."

Examples

• "The beautiful streaks of virga created a dramatic sunset effect."
• "Virga can indicate very dry air in the lower atmosphere."
• "Despite the dark cloud and visible virga, the ground remained completely dry."

Advanced Usage

• In aviation: Virga is a noted meteorological hazard because it can be associated with sudden and severe downdrafts of air, known as microbursts, which are dangerous for aircraft during takeoff and landing. : "The flight was delayed due to reports of virga and potential wind shear near the airport."

Variants and Related Words

• Precipitation (n): Any form of water - liquid or solid - falling from clouds, including rain, snow, sleet, or hail. Virga is a specific type of precipitation that does not reach the surface.
• Fallstreak (n): A synonym often used interchangeably with virga, particularly for ice crystal virga.

Synonyms

• Fallstreak
• Precipitation shaft (that evaporates)

Notes

• The term is most commonly used in meteorological and aviation contexts.
• It is derived from Latin, meaning "rod," "branch," or "streak," describing its visual appearance.

Noun

1. light wispy precipitation that evaporates before it reaches the ground (especially when the lower air is low in humidity)