Hail — Jim Wells, Texas

2025-05-06 · near Sandia, Jim Wells, Texas

Event narrative

Report from mPING: Ping Pong Ball (1.50 in.).

Wider weather episode

Hail reports ranging from 0.75 to 2 in diameter during the evening of May 6th were the result of a highly unstable and supportive severe weather environment east of a dryline. A potent shortwave and an upper-level jet streak enhanced mid- and upper-level winds, contributing to deep-layer shear values of 50-60 knots. At the surface, a weak low pressure system allowed the dryline to advance eastward, creating a sharp contrast between hot, dry air to the west and warm, moist air to the east. Afternoon temperatures in the 90s combined with steep mid-level lapse rates (8 degC/km) to generate 3000-4000 J/kg of surface-based CAPE, signaling strong potential for vigorous updrafts capable of supporting large hail.

View location on OpenStreetMap → (28.0200, -97.9292)

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1247534. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.