In paying homage to the Nordic gods as the wacky and wild Spring weather takes full effect, the monumental historical efforts of Thor have been well-documented by researchers.
Though a rugged pair of weather phenomenon dominate the conversation of the transition from Winter into Summer, in the drastic temperature changes onset by Chinook winds, and unstable air pressure resulting in epic thunderstorms, it is the latter meteorological highlight that merits further mention.
As the full force of thunderstorms can be potentially dangerous in literally causing headaches, thanks to golf ball and larger sized hailstones, Weather Underground has done the grunt work and in compiling a partial list of state record “breaking” frozen balls balls of condensation, as well as a complete guide to the wonders of the icy construct. Interestingly enough, the largest recorded hailstone to land on US soil, measured in at an amazing 8 inches in diameter and weighed nearly 2 pounds, after it dropped from the skies above South Dakota. Luckily no one encountered the beast, as it fell towards the earth at over 100 miles per hour and weighing six times heavier than a baseball. Alaska, the largest state in total area, claimed the dubious honor beckoning size envy, as its record stone reached only 1.5 inches. In defense of The Last Frontier state, the West coast is virtually immune from the powerful and damaging thunderstorms of the Central US and tornado alley.
As hail is not unique to North America (duh), the article cites global examples of destruction caused by freak thunderstorms.
Check out Wunderground’s Guide To Everything Hail.
WATCH: As Winds And Large Hailstones Lay Waste To A Neighborhood
