Central Texas experienced severe weather on Thursday as two large supercell thunderstorms passed through, causing considerable damage in areas like San Marcos and Johnson City. These storms brought not only strong winds but also unusually large hail, with the National Weather Service (NWS) confirming reports of hail measuring up to 5 inches in diameter—comparable in size to CDs or DVDs. This rare size of hail is significant as it can cause extensive damage to property and agriculture.
The KXAN First Warning Weather Team highlighted the intensity of the storms and the ensuing damage, particularly noting the impact of wind-driven hail. Viewers from the affected regions have been actively sharing videos and photos, documenting the scale and severity of the hail. This incident underscores the increasing frequency and intensity of severe weather events, prompting discussions about weather preparedness and the potential effects of climate change on storm patterns.
Meteorologists and storm chasers, including those from the NWS, have been closely monitoring the situation, providing updates and warnings to help mitigate the impact on local communities. The event has captured significant attention due to the size of the hailstones, which are not commonly seen, even in severe weather conditions.