A new Philippine study found that the hottest days of the year are more likely to cause hailstorms, even though the country is known for its warm, tropical weather.
Because hail is unusual in the Philippines, people often react with shock and curiosity, sharing photos or videos online. Some see it as a strange weather event.
The biggest hailstones ever recorded in the country fell in Nueva Ecija on May 8, 2020, with some pieces of ice larger than golf balls (5 cm).
It may seem strange, but hot weather helps create hail. Heat near the ground causes air to rise quickly, pushing moisture high into the sky, where it turns into ice.
Rising air carries water high enough to freeze. Dry air in the middle part of the atmosphere helps hailstones fall faster and melt less, allowing them to reach the ground intact.
The study found hailstorms occur more often in March, April, and May, the Philippines’ dry season, when surface temperatures are at their highest.
Most hailstorms were recorded in the mid to late afternoon, when the day is hottest and the atmosphere is most unstable, making it easier for storms to form.
Luzon experienced the highest number of hailstorms overall, but larger hailstones were more common in the Visayas and Mindanao, likely due to local weather patterns.
This research is the first long-term, detailed study of hailstorms in the country, analyzing data from 2006 to 2024.
As the climate changes, hailstorms and other rare weather events may become more common, adding to the list of risks that communities need to prepare for.
Researchers recommend that disaster plans include hailstorms, tornadoes, and waterspouts, not just typhoons and floods.
The scientists also call for stronger weather monitoring systems and public awareness.
Read more at: Phys.org. Research published in Asia-Pacific Journal of Atmospheric Sciences.