How Big Is the World's Largest Hailstone?

In terms of diameter, the largest hailstone on record fell in Vivian, South Dakota, in the United States on 23 July 2010. The stone measured 8 inches (20.32 cm) across, which is similar to the size of a small bowling ball. It likely was even larger when it fell, however, because it is believed to have melted somewhat before it was measured. Previously, the largest hailstone on record was a stone that fell in Aurora, Nebraska, in 2003. That hailstone measured 7 inches (17.78 cm) in diameter.

More facts about hailstones:

  • The cores of hailstones contain significant amounts of bacteria that are similar to the bacteria found in snowflakes.

  • In the U.S. state of Colorado, the hailstorm season runs from March through October. The greatest concentration of storms usually occurs in June, with an average of 130 storms during that month.

  • Hailstones can fall from a height of 30,000 feet (9,144 m) and approach the earth at speeds of as much as 120 miles per hour (193 km/h).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the size of the world's largest hailstone?

The world's largest hailstone on record measured a staggering 8 inches in diameter and weighed nearly 2 pounds. It fell in Vivian, South Dakota, on July 23, 2010, and was confirmed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This hailstone set a new benchmark for size and weight in hailstone measurements.

How is hail size typically measured?

Hail size is commonly measured by its diameter, using common objects for comparison, such as peas, marbles, or baseballs. For more precise measurements, especially for record-setting hailstones, scientists use calipers to measure the diameter and scales to weigh the hailstone. The NOAA often verifies significant hailstone measurements for record-keeping purposes.

What conditions lead to the formation of large hailstones?

Large hailstones form in severe thunderstorms with very strong updrafts, which keep the hailstone aloft in the thunderstorm cloud for extended periods. This allows the hailstone to grow as it repeatedly ascends and descends, collecting layers of ice. The stronger the updraft, the longer the stone can grow, leading to potentially massive hailstones.

Where do large hailstones most commonly occur?

Large hailstones are most commonly found in the central United States, particularly in an area known as "Hail Alley," which includes parts of Colorado, Nebraska, and Wyoming. This region's atmospheric conditions are conducive to the development of severe thunderstorms that can produce significant hailstones. However, large hail can occur anywhere under the right conditions.

What impact can large hailstones have?

Large hailstones can have devastating impacts, causing significant property damage to homes, vehicles, and crops. They pose a serious threat to livestock and wildlife, as well as to human safety. The economic cost of hail damage can run into billions of dollars annually, particularly in regions where large hail events are more common.

Can we predict when and where large hailstones will fall?

Meteorologists can predict the likelihood of hail in severe thunderstorms using weather radar and models that assess atmospheric instability and wind shear. While predicting the exact size and location of hailstone fall is challenging, warnings and watches help to alert the public to the potential for large hail in their area.

More Info: www.crh.noaa.gov

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