Ice Storm in a Pine Forest: 11 Hrs of Solitude

Immerse yourself in the stunning and serene world of an ice storm and be transported to the heart of North Carolina's forests, where the small particles of sleet and ice create a unique soundscape unlike any other. The sound of the ice hitting the tall pine trees and the rustling of branches coated in a thick layer of frost creates a hauntingly beautiful symphony that will leave you in awe of the power of mother nature.

Ice storms occur when there is a layer of freezing air at the surface, and a layer of above-freezing air aloft. When precipitation falls through this warm air, it melts into rain droplets, which then freeze upon contact with the colder surfaces below. This can happen when warm and moist air from the Gulf of Mexico encounters a cold front, resulting in the formation of freezing rain. Ice storms are most common in the winter months, but can also occur in other seasons, depending on the weather conditions.

Thanks to the wonderful audio work of user courter of freesound.org, who recorded these sounds in January 2014.