What type of precipitation is typically steady and indicative of stable air?

Steady precipitation is characterized by a consistent and uniform rate of rainfall or snowfall that often occurs in stable atmospheric conditions. This type of precipitation is typically associated with stratiform clouds, which form in stable air where there is little to no vertical movement. The stability of the air mass allows for moisture to be gradually released over time, resulting in prolonged periods of precipitation.

In contrast, heavy rain showers and flurries of snow are often linked to more unstable conditions, where vertical lift leads to brief but intense precipitation events. Light intermittent rain also suggests variability in intensity and is not as consistent as steady precipitation. Steady precipitation serves as a good indicator of stable air, contributing to the understanding of weather patterns and forecasting.