Snow and rain loads

Snow and rain loads are considered in the design of structures, especially in regions where these conditions are dominant. These loads exert significant forces on structures, and accounting for them is essential to ensure the resistance and safety of buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure. More specifically, snow loads refer to the additional weight that snow accumulation places on a structure, while rain loads refer to the additional forces exerted on a structure due to rainfall. The weight of snow can vary based on factors such as the type of snow, its density, and the duration of accumulation, while rain loads can affect the structural capacity of roofs, walls, and other components by causing localized pooling of water and increased overall weight. It's important for structural engineers to be familiar with the relevant design codes and standards, mainly regarding the location of the project, as these codes provide guidance on how to calculate and account for these loads.