Hail forms during thunderstorms when strong rising currents of air within the storm, called updrafts, carry water droplets to an elevation where freezing occurs. Small ice particles form, fall down through the storm where they pick up more water droplets, and then are lifted back up again by the updrafts. This cycle can occur many times until the ice particles - now hailstones - become too heavy to be supported by the updraft, and fall to the ground.
Hailstone sizes greater than 0.75 inches in diameter present a great threat to people, animals, property, and infrastructure. Large hail can fall at speeds faster than 100 mph and can total cars, ruin roofs, break windows, damage shutters, kill animals, and seriously injure or kill humans.
If you are under a severe thunderstorm warning where hail is possible, take shelter immediately and tune in to local media for more information.
Stay indoors during severe weather and stay away from windows and skylights when hail threatens.
To prepare before the storm, you can:
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Purchase a personal indoor notification system. These systems will alert you to any hazardous conditions that may exist.
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When a severe weather event is apparent, ensure that all the building’s occupants are inside and safe, including pets.
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Close your drapes, blinds, or window shades to prevent the wind from blowing potential broken glass inside.
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