What you’re seeing
- The sky is dark and stormy, indicating a strong thunderstorm system.
- Ice balls (hailstones) are scattered on the ground, cars, and sidewalks.
- Some hailstones are unusually large and oddly shaped, including:
- Smooth round ones
- Layered or “ridged” discs (like in the hand)
- Chunky, irregular pieces
What is hail?
Hail forms when strong updrafts inside storm clouds (called cumulonimbus clouds) carry raindrops upward into very cold areas of the atmosphere. There, they freeze and grow as more layers of ice build up.
- Repeated cycles up and down in the cloud → larger hailstones
- Stronger storm → bigger hail
Size comparison (based on images)
The hail shown appears to range from:
- Golf ball size (~4–5 cm)
- Up to possibly tennis ball or larger (~6–8+ cm)
That qualifies as severe hail, capable of causing damage.
Potential damage
Hail of this size can:
- Dent or crack cars (as seen on the hood)
- Break windows
- Damage roofs and siding
- Destroy plants and trees (note the broken branches)
- Injure people and animals if caught outside
Why some hail looks unusual
The ridged, flat, or spiky shapes form due to:
- Changing wind speeds inside the storm
- Partial melting and refreezing
- Collisions with other hailstones
Storm severity
Storms that produce hail like this often include:
- Strong winds
- Heavy rain
- Lightning
- Sometimes tornado risk
Safety tips during hailstorms
- Stay indoors and away from windows
- Park vehicles in a garage or under cover
- Avoid going outside during the storm
- Protect your head if caught outside
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