Hailstones damage vehicles, aircraft, buildings, crops, and livestock. Roofs take the worst hit. A direct hit on the head (a rare event) can cause a concussion. Hailstones cover the ground and can knock out electricity. The storms can also create flash floods, down trees, and cause mud slides. They typically last 5-10 minutes, just long enough to wreak havoc. Read about a destructive Kansas hailstorm 100 years ago in Tazia and Gemma (see NOVELS).
