How is drizzle defined in terms of drop size?

Drizzle is defined as very light rain consisting of water droplets that are relatively small in size. Specifically, the classification of drizzle involves droplets that are less than 0.5 mm in diameter. This size differentiates drizzle from heavier forms of precipitation like rain, which feature larger droplets. Drizzle typically falls at a slow rate and often appears more mist-like, contributing to its classification based on drop size.

Understanding drizzle is important in meteorology, as it can impact visibility and surface conditions, particularly for aviation and road traffic. Recognizing the size of precipitation particles helps in forecasting weather conditions accurately and allows for better preparation in various sectors.