this is a possible solution of how we can render our own falling snow. this paper look deep into snow render but using texture for the falling snow and rain.

http://dl.acm.org/citation.cfm?id=1186241

my second set of design for our desert scene

Computer Modelling of Fallen Snow
A look at a 3D approach on how to render fallen snow. This paper looks at the the techniques that can be implemented into creating snow accumulation and snow flake flutter.

http://graphics.stanford.edu/courses/cs448-01-spring/papers/fearing.pdf