Large Hail, Severe Weather Possible For South Florida

MIAMI, Florida - Strong to locally severe thunderstorms capable of producing damaging wind gusts, large hail, localized heavy rainfall, and frequent cloud-to-ground lightning will be possible for  the east coast of South Florida, according to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center.

The greatest chance for severe weather is in Broward County,  Palm Beach County, and northeastern Miami-Dade County.

Severe Thunderstorms vs.  Ordinary Thunderstorms

Although every Florida thunderstorm has the potential to cause injury or property damage, only about 10 percent actually produce dangerous winds or sufficiently large hail to be of a significant hazard as to result in damage to well-built structures or cause bodily harm.  These are known as "severe thunderstorms.

Severe thunderstorms produce hail at least the size of a quarter (1 inch) or larger and/or gusty winds of 58 mph (50 knots) or more.  

The National Weather Service issues Severe Thunderstorm Warnings for particular counties (or parts of counties) when a severe thunderstorm is occurring or is imminent. 

What Damage Can Large Hailstones Do?

Storms that produce hailstones the size of quarters or larger can result in dents on cars, damage to roofs, break windows, and can be deadly to animals and people.

Large hailstones can fall at speeds faster than 100 mph. 

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