For some, the sheer noise was one of the most memorable aspects.
The constant pounding against roofs and windows created an almost deafening sound.
Others were struck by how quickly the conditions changed.
One moment, the evening seemed ordinary.
The next, people were being told to stay indoors while large chunks of ice fell from the sky.
Such rapid changes can make severe weather particularly frightening because there is little time to prepare once the storm reaches its strongest stage.
Why Large Hail Can Be So Dangerous
Hail forms inside strong thunderstorms when powerful updrafts carry water droplets high into the atmosphere.
Within the storm, those droplets can freeze and accumulate layers of ice.
When the hailstones become too heavy for the updrafts to support, they fall toward the ground.
The stronger the thunderstorm’s updrafts, the larger the hailstones can potentially become.
Large hail can damage:
- Roofs
- Vehicles
- Windows
- Outdoor equipment
- Trees
- Crops
- Siding and other exterior surfaces
When hail becomes unusually large, people outside can also be at risk of injury.
