Is there a way to simply look at a thunderstorm and tell if it will produce hail at the ground?

There is no positive way to look at a thunderstorm in the distance and tell if it will produce hail reaching the ground.

Meteorologists use weather radar to "look" inside a thunderstorm. Since hail reflects more energy back to the radar than raindrops it often shows up in red shades.

The WSR-88D Doppler Radar can also estimate the size of the hail based on the amount of energy reflected back.

Show All Answers

1. Should I be concerned about tornadoes when hail is observed?
2. Is there a way to simply look at a thunderstorm and tell if it will produce hail at the ground?
3. How large can hail get?
4. Is there a way to estimate hail size or do I have to go outside and measure it?