Water Smart: Water in the Air - Hail

Hail forms in tall thunderstorms, even on hot days, and can vary in size from a pebble to a grapefruit. It forms high above the ground where temperatures are below freezing. Large hail can be dangerous, especially to animals. Some hail comes from cold clouds that are not thunderstorms, and this hail is usually smaller.

What weather condition is necessary for hail to form?

• Clear skies

• Tall thunderstorms

• Light rain

• Foggy conditions

What is the largest size hail can reach during severe thunderstorms?

• Marble

• Pebble

• Grapefruit

• Golf ball

Where does hail form before falling to the ground?

• Near the ground

• High above the ground

• In the desert

• In the ocean

Why is large hail considered dangerous?

• It can create strong winds

• It can cause drought

• It can damage crops and harm animals

• It can cause flooding

What is a characteristic of hail that falls from non-thunderstorm clouds?

• It is typically smaller

• It is always spherical

• It is usually very large

• It is warmer than hail from thunderstorms