What to Do About a Hailstorm
A hailstorm can turn an ordinary day into a bit of a surprise. While many people might think of hail as just a few icy pellets, it can sometimes grow large enough to cause damage. Hailstones can range from the size of marbles to that of golf balls, and in rare cases, even larger. This can lead to damage to vehicles, homes, and crops. The good news is that with a little preparation and the right response, you can protect yourself and your property.
Hail is a type of precipitation made up of solid ice pellets. It forms within strong thunderstorms, typically in mid-latitude regions, during the warmer months (from May to September in the Northern Hemisphere). These conditions are most favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms, which can create hailstorms. In North America, areas like "Hail Alley" spanning parts of Wyoming, Colorado, and Nebraska are particularly prone to frequent and sometimes damaging hailstorms.
Causes and Features of a Hailstorm
Understanding the factors that lead to hail can give you the insight needed to identify the early signs of an impending storm. Recognizing these signals allows you to take the right precautions to protect both yourself and your property before conditions worsen.
What Causes a Hailstorm
Hail is formed by the intense updrafts of a thunderstorm. The process begins when tiny ice crystals are carried into the storm's cold upper layers. As they descend, they collect supercooled water droplets that freeze upon contact. If the updraft is strong enough, it can lift the hailstone back into the storm, allowing it to accumulate more layers of ice. This cycle repeats multiple times, with each trip adding a new layer, until the hailstone grows too heavy to be held aloft and falls to the ground.
Key Features of a Hailstorm
Hailstones come in various sizes, ranging from tiny pellets no bigger than a mung bean to larger ones as big as eggs or even fists. Typically, they measure more than 5 millimetres across and have shapes that can be spherical, conical, or irregular. They are solid and dense, which makes them capable of causing significant damage.
Hailstorms are rarely isolated events. They are often accompanied by heavy rain, gusty winds, thunder, and lightning, all of which increase their potential for destruction. In some instances, hailstorms are part of supercell thunderstorms, which can produce powerful winds and even spawn tornadoes
Hailstorms can form quickly and often arrive with little to no warning. They tend to be highly localized, meaning that one area may experience severe damage while nearby regions might not be affected at all.
What Are the Risks of a Hailstorm?
The consequences of a hailstorm can be wide-ranging, impacting everything from personal safety to critical infrastructure. Understanding these risks is crucial for taking proactive steps to protect yourself and your property.
Power Outages and Infrastructure Damage
Large hailstones can cause significant damage to electric power lines, substations, and other critical infrastructure, often resulting in widespread power outages. In the most severe storms, the damage can be substantial, leaving entire communities without power for hours or even days.
Travel and Transportation Disruptions
Hailstorms can significantly impair visibility, making driving hazardous. The hail can also create slippery roads, raising the likelihood of accidents. In addition, airports may delay or cancel flights, and public transportation services could be postponed or suspended.
Damage to Vehicles and Property
One of the most noticeable impacts of a hailstorm is the damage it causes to vehicles and property. Hailstones can shatter windows, dent car bodies, and damage mirrors. For homes and businesses, they can puncture roofs, shatter skylights, and cause damage to siding and outdoor equipment.
Risks to Personal Safety
Finding yourself caught in a hailstorm without shelter can be hazardous. Large hailstones can inflict serious injuries, such as concussions or fractures. The danger is particularly high for those outdoors, whether hiking, playing sports, or engaged in other activities.
Secondary Weather Hazards
Hailstorms often occur as part of a larger severe weather system, which can include strong winds, heavy rain, and even tornadoes. These secondary hazards increase the overall danger, making the storm even more unpredictable and challenging to manage.
How to Prepare for a Hailstorm
Preparation is your strongest defence against the damaging effects of a hailstorm. Below is a power outage preparation guide to help you protect your family and property when severe weather strikes.
Staying Updated with Weather Alerts
The best way to stay prepared is by staying informed. Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio nearby to receive weather alerts from trusted sources like the Environment and Climate Change Canada Weather Alert System. Additionally, downloading a reliable weather app on your smartphone will ensure you get timely push notifications about severe weather in your area.
Protecting Your Home and Car
When a hailstorm is approaching, move your car into a garage or under a carport if possible. If you don't have covered parking, use blankets, heavy-duty tarps, or a car cover to safeguard your vehicle's paint and windows. For your home, secure any loose items in your yard to prevent them from being damaged or blown away. Additionally, close all blinds and curtains to reduce the risk of glass shattering inward if a window breaks.
Emergency Kit Essentials
Being prepared with an emergency kit is crucial during severe weather events. Your kit should contain.
First Aid Items: Pack bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any prescription medications you rely on.
Food and Water: Ensure you have non-perishable food and enough water to last at least three days for each person.
Basic Lighting: Include a flashlight with extra batteries, a multifunctional outdoor camping light or a rechargeable headlamp to light your way in case of power outages.
Preparing for Power Outages
After a hailstorm, power outages can last well beyond the storm’s end. To avoid disruptions and maintain daily routines, having a reliable backup power source is key. Portable power stations provide a safer, more practical solution than gas generators, ensuring your home stays powered during recovery efforts. This makes having a home battery backup system an essential part of your emergency preparedness plan.
EcoFlow, a leader in portable power solutions, offers a variety of systems tailored to different home backup needs. Below are some EcoFlow power backup options to consider:
| Product | Capacity | Ideal Use Case | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 768 Wh | Short-Term Power Outages | Fast charging (0-100% in 70 min), multiple outlets (AC, USB-A, USB-C), lightweight and portable. |
| Ideal Use Case | 1000 Wh (Expandable to 3000 Wh) | All-Purpose Home Backup | High-power output 2200W), powers up to 90% of home appliances, expandable capacity for longer outages. |
| Key Features | 2000 Wh (Expandable to 6000 Wh) | Extended Power Outages and Heavy-Duty Use | Larger capacity, high-power output (3400W), ideal for running major appliances like refrigerators or sump pumps for long periods. |
What to Do and What to Avoid During a Hailstorm
When a hailstorm strikes, quick action is crucial. Knowing the right steps to take in the heat of the moment can make all the difference between staying safe and putting yourself at risk.
Safe Actions During a Hailstorm
When a hailstorm begins, the first few minutes matter most for your safety. Staying calm and acting quickly will help reduce risks.
Seek Shelter: If you’re outdoors, head immediately to a sturdy, permanent structure. If that’s not possible, a vehicle can also provide protection.
Stay Indoors: At home, keep away from windows and glass doors. Move to an interior room, basement, or closet to avoid flying glass if a window breaks.
If in a Car: Pull over to a safe spot, away from trees and power lines. Switch on your hazard lights and, if possible, angle the car so the hail hits the windshield, which is generally the strongest glass.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During Hailstorms
Knowing what not to do during a hailstorm is just as important as taking the right precautions. Certain actions can increase the risk of injury or damage, and avoiding them can help keep you safe.
Don’t Shelter Under Trees: Trees may seem like a good option outdoors, but they can be dangerous. Falling branches and the risk of lightning make them unsafe.
Don’t Stay Outside: Trying to “wait it out” outdoors exposes you to serious risk from falling hailstones. Always move indoors or into a vehicle when possible.
Don’t Drive Through the Storm: Continuing to drive in heavy hail reduces visibility and increases accident risk. If you’re already on the road, pull over safely until conditions improve.
FAQ
What was the worst storm in Canada?
One of Canada’s most devastating storms was Hurricane Hazel in 1954, which brought severe flooding to Ontario and claimed the lives of more than 80 people. It remains one of the deadliest weather events in the country’s history. More recently, Hurricane Fiona in 2022 left a lasting impact on Atlantic Canada, destroying homes, damaging infrastructure, and displacing communities. These storms serve as reminders of the importance of preparation and resilience in the face of extreme weather.
How do you know when a hailstorm is coming?
Hail usually develops during severe thunderstorms, and there are a few signs that can help you recognize when conditions are right. A dark, greenish sky is often an indicator, along with strong gusts of wind and fast-moving clouds. You may also notice a sudden drop in temperature as the storm approaches. Most importantly, keep an eye on official alerts from local weather services, which will issue warnings if hail is likely in your area.
Can hailstorms cause power outages?
Yes. Large hailstones can strike power lines, transformers, and other electrical equipment, causing significant damage. This can lead to widespread outages that may last for hours or even days, depending on the severity of the storm. In addition to hail impacts, strong winds and heavy rain often accompany these storms, further increasing the risk of electrical disruptions.
How long does a hailstorm last?
Most hailstorms are brief, often lasting only a few minutes before the storm passes. However, stronger systems can produce hail for a longer period, sometimes up to 15 minutes or more. The severity and duration usually depend on the strength of the thunderstorm’s updrafts and the overall storm system. While short, even a few minutes of large hail can cause significant damage.
Is it safe to drive during a hailstorm?
No, driving during a hailstorm is not safe. Hail can crack or shatter your windshield, dent the body of your vehicle, and create near-zero visibility on the road. If you are already driving when hail begins, the safest option is to pull over to a secure location, away from trees and power lines. Turn on your hazard lights, remain inside the vehicle, and wait until the storm has passed before continuing your trip.
How can I keep my devices powered during a hailstorm?
Staying connected is vital during severe weather, and that means keeping your devices charged. Power outages are common after hailstorms, so having a reliable backup power source is essential. Portable power stations provide a safe, quiet, and convenient way to charge phones, laptops, and other critical devices. The EcoFlow DELTA 2 Max, for example, offers high-capacity storage and multiple outlets, making it easy to keep your household powered and ensure you can receive emergency updates when you need them most.
Conclusion
A hailstorm can arrive suddenly, but with preparation and awareness, its impact can be managed. By staying alert to weather updates, securing your home and vehicle, and avoiding common mistakes, you greatly reduce the risks. Having a dependable backup power source also makes a big difference. Portable solutions can provide the energy needed to keep devices charged and households running smoothly until conditions return to normal. With the right plan in place, you can face a hailstorm with greater confidence and peace of mind.