Severe Weather

Our round of severe weather last night resulted in numerous reports of hail and some scattered wind damage.  Did you know that there’s actually a definition of a severe storm?  The official definition is that the storm has to contain winds of at least 58 mph and/or hail that’s 3/4 of an inch in diameter.  This is close to the size of a penny.  It can be raining cats and dogs and the lightning can be horrific, but the storm has to have strong winds and/or large hail for it to be classified as severe and for a warning to be issued by the National Weather Service.  The NWS is considering raising the hail size limit to an inch in diameter.  This would be close to the size of a nickel.  Either way, we appreciate the severe weather reports that our viewers send in.  Be sure to tell us how big the hail was, when it started and how long it lasted - this gives us valuable information to be able to warn folks that could be in harm’s way.  Also, remember that if you see weather happening in your area, keep yourself safe, but send us a picture at .  We’d love to hear from you and might be able to show your picture on tv.