What phenomenon involves streams of precipitation that evaporate before reaching the ground?

The phenomenon that involves streams of precipitation evaporating before reaching the ground is known as virga. Virga occurs when moisture falls from clouds but transforms into water vapor before it can make contact with the Earth's surface. This typically happens in arid or dry conditions, where the air below the cloud layer is too dry to support the falling droplets. As the precipitation descends, it may partially or completely evaporate, resulting in this visually interesting effect often seen as streaks or wisps extending from the clouds.

When considering fog, drizzle, and rain, these phenomena differ fundamentally in how precipitation interacts with the atmosphere. Fog is comprised of tiny water droplets suspended in the air near the ground, and drizzle refers to light rain with very small droplets that typically reach the surface. Rain features liquid droplets that are large enough to overcome air resistance and reach the ground without evaporating. Therefore, virga is distinct because it specifically describes a process where precipitation never quite reaches the surface due to evaporation.