Hail: Hard & Heavy
Facing the Fury: During a Severe Hailstorm
When a severe thunderstorm produces large, damaging hail, homeowners find themselves in a tense and often frightening situation. The sound of hail pounding against roofs, the threat of shattered windows, and the fear of property damage make for a stressful experience. Unlike other natural disasters that unfold over hours or days, hailstorms can strike suddenly and cause immense destruction in a matter of minutes. Here’s what homeowners typically go through as a severe hailstorm rages over their town.
The Sudden Onset of the Storm
Severe thunderstorms with large hail often arrive quickly, with little time to react. We recommend tracking weather alerts to have a general idea of the storm’s arrival, but the exact intensity can still be unpredictable.
Common signs that a hailstorm is about to begin include:
• A sudden drop in temperature
• Dark, ominous clouds forming overhead
• A strange, greenish tint in the sky
• Strong winds and lightning flashes
• A heavy downpour that abruptly transitions into falling ice
The Deafening Roar of Hailstones
Once the hailstorm begins, the noise is often one of the most overwhelming aspects. Homeowners describe it as:
• A relentless drumming on the roof
• A sharp cracking or popping sound as hailstones hit windows and siding
• A chaotic barrage of loud noises, making it hard to hear anything else
For those inside, the sound of hail hitting their home can be nerve-wracking, especially when larger hailstones begin to strike. It can be very stressful to sit & wonder what damages are being done to your property as you can hear the hail relentlessly making impact.
Windows and Roofs Taking a Beating
As the storm intensifies, homeowners start worrying about structural damage. Large hailstones can:
• Crack or break windows, sending shards of glass into the home
• Punch holes in roofing materials, leading to leaks
• Dent siding, gutters, and metal fixtures
• Destroy skylights, leaving gaping holes exposed to the storm
It is recommended for safety that people move to interior rooms, away from windows, to avoid potential injury from flying glass.
Vehicles and Outdoor Property Suffering Damage
Even with last-minute preparations, many homeowners are forced to watch helplessly as their vehicles and outdoor belongings get battered by hail. Common damage includes:
• Dented car hoods, roofs, and trunks
• Shattered windshields and broken side mirrors
• Outdoor furniture destroyed or scattered by wind-driven hail
• Gardens and landscaping flattened by ice pellets
Some may attempt to shield their cars with blankets or other coverings if they didn’t have access to a garage, but during the peak of the storm, it is not recommended and in fact too dangerous to go outside.
Power Outages and Communication Issues
Severe hailstorms are often accompanied by strong winds, heavy rain, and intense lightning. This can lead to:
• Power outages from downed lines
• Cell phone signal disruptions
• Internet and cable service interruptions
Homeowners relying on weather updates may suddenly find themselves without access to real-time information, increasing the uncertainty and anxiety of the situation.
Water Leaks and Immediate Damage Control
If hail has punctured the roof or shattered windows, homeowners may notice water quickly seeping into their homes. As rain continues to pour, to mitigate the situation as quickly as possible, it is recommended for homeowners to:
• Use towels, buckets, or tarps to contain leaks
• Move furniture and electronics away from water-damaged areas
• Shut off power in affected areas to prevent electrical hazards
Unfortunately, in the middle of a storm, most repair efforts are limited, and homeowners must wait until the weather clears to assess the full extent of the damage.
The Fear and Anxiety of the Unknown
Beyond physical damage, hailstorms take an emotional toll on homeowners. Common fears during the storm include:
• The possibility of roof collapse if hailstones accumulate too much weight
• A tornado forming in connection with the storm
• The cost of repairing damages and dealing with insurance claims afterward
For families with young children or pets, keeping everyone calm becomes an additional challenge.
The Sudden End and Initial Damage Inspection
Unlike hurricanes or prolonged weather events, hailstorms can end as abruptly as they start. Within minutes, the storm may pass, leaving behind:
• Ice-covered lawns, streets, and rooftops
• Broken branches and scattered debris
• Vehicles and homes visibly damaged or destroyed
Some homeowners may step outside immediately to inspect the damage, while others wait until the hail melts and it’s safe to assess their property.
A severe hailstorm is a short but intense experience that leaves homeowners shaken and their properties often in need of major repairs. From the deafening impact of hailstones to the anxiety of potential destruction, the storm is a test of resilience. However, with proper preparation and a quick response after the storm, homeowners can begin the process of recovery and rebuilding. If you live in a hail-prone area, staying informed and having a solid emergency plan can make all the difference when the next storm strikes.