What is indicated by the code SHPE in weather terms?

The code SHPE indicates "moderate ice pellet showers" in meteorological terms. This classification is part of the standardized alphanumeric codes used in aviation weather reporting. The "SH" prefix signifies that the precipitation is in the form of showers, while "PE" specifies the type of precipitation as ice pellets. Ice pellets, also known as sleet, occur when there is a temperature inversion that causes raindrops to freeze before they reach the ground. They can impact aircraft operations significantly due to their potential to affect runway conditions and aircraft performance.

Understanding the implications of different weather phenomena is crucial for safe flight operations. The term 'moderate' indicates that these showers are significant enough to warrant attention, affecting visibility and potentially causing accumulation on surfaces.