Hail

Hail is a type of precipitation that consists of balls or lumps of ice that are formed in thunderstorm clouds. It is a form of solid precipitation and can range in size from small pea-sized pellets to large golf ball-sized or even larger chunks.

Formation of Hail

Hailstones are formed when updrafts in thunderstorm clouds carry raindrops upward into extremely cold areas of the atmosphere where they freeze into ice. As the hailstones continue to be lifted and fall through the storm, they can accumulate additional layers of ice, making them grow in size before finally falling to the ground.

Characteristics of Hail

Hailstones can vary in size, shape, and hardness. The largest hailstones are typically formed in severe thunderstorms with strong updrafts that can keep the hailstones suspended in the atmosphere for longer periods, allowing them to grow larger.

Impact of Hail

Hail can cause significant damage to crops, vehicles, and buildings. Severe hailstorms can also pose a danger to people and animals caught outdoors. Hail can also impact aviation and cause damage to aircraft.

Study Guide Questions

1. What is hail and how is it formed?
2. What are the characteristics of hailstones?
3. What is the impact of hail on the environment and human activities?
4. How can severe hailstorms be dangerous?