Did you know the Denver, Colorado, and its environs is one of the most hail-prone parts of the United States? This is not just an esoteric fact. Hailstorms can be highly destructive, even deadly. In fact, it is the most destructive type of precipitation. If your property undergoes hail damage, you may need hail damage repair Denver CO.
The Destructive Power Of Hail
It is estimated that hailstorms cause $15 billion in damage on average across the United States each year. The total has increased in recent years because of increased development on migration to hail-prone areas and because of climate changes. The destructive power of hailstorms upon plant and animal life, buildings and property, and aircraft in flight make them a prime object of weather forecasting and weather modification studies.
The Meteorology of Hail
Hailstones usually occur in the months of May through August. It is during these times that cool, dry air meets warm, moist air masses, especially in the central part of North America, to produce hailstorms. June is the leading month of the most severe hailstorms based on data collected by radar-based climate research. The portions of the country most likely to receive numerous hailstorms are roughly similar to those where tornado outbreaks occur.
Hailstones form when water droplets are supercooled as they ascend high up into the tops of thunderstorms. Often hailstones become larger when repeated ascents and descent occur within the thunderhead.
Hail in Colorado
Hail Season in Colorado runs from April 15 to September 15. The lee side of the Front Range, unaffectionately known as “Hail Alley”, is highly prone to hail and receives numerous destructive hailstorms most years. Hailstones up to 2 inches in diameter fall in Colorado most years. They can travel at rates of 80 mph and cause widespread damage. Hailstones as large as 4 1/2-plus inches in diameter have been observed in the state. Historically one death and numerous injuries have occurred because of hail in Colorado.
The most recent severe hailstorm in the Denver area occurred on May 8, 2017. The results were catastrophic, especially due to the broad swath of geography that was impacted.
Pay attention to weather reports when severe weather and hail are forecasted. Move vehicles into covered areas if possible. Take shelter immediately if hailstorms are imminent. If you are driving a car, pull out of the traffic flow into a nearby parking lot or onto the side of the road.
