Severe Thunderstorm Brings Marble-Sized Hail to East Texas

On [current date], a powerful severe thunderstorm moved across East Texas, producing damaging winds, frequent lightning, and reports of marble-sized hail in several communities. The storm prompted multiple severe weather warnings from the National Weather Service (NWS) and led to scattered power outages and property damage across the region.

Storm Development and Impact

The thunderstorm developed along a dry line advancing through East Texas, fueled by daytime heating and ample moisture from the Gulf of Mexico. Radar imagery showed a supercell structure forming over Smith County, prompting the NWS in Shreveport to issue a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Tyler and surrounding areas shortly after 3:00 p.m. CDT.

Trained storm spotters and members of the public reported hail ranging from pea-sized to as large as marbles—approximately 0.5 inches in diameter—in neighborhoods across Tyler, Whitehouse, and Lindale. Although no injuries were reported, the hail caused minor damage to vehicles, roofs, and outdoor equipment. The NWS confirmed hail reports through its Local Storm Reports page, which listed multiple incidents of hail between 0.25 and 0.50 inches in Smith and Gregg counties.

In addition to hail, the storm produced wind gusts estimated at 58 to 65 mph, strong enough to snap tree limbs and knock over unsecured objects. Oncor, the primary electricity provider for the region, reported over 4,200 customers without power at the storm’s peak, with most service restored by late evening.

Understanding Hail Formation

Hail forms inside strong thunderstorms when updrafts carry raindrops into extremely cold areas of the atmosphere, where they freeze. As the frozen droplets fall and are lifted again by the storm’s updrafts, additional layers of ice accrete, growing the hailstone. The size of the hail depends on the strength of the updraft—stronger updrafts can support larger hailstones before they fall to the ground.

Marble-sized hail (around 0.5 inches) is considered severe by the NWS, which defines severe hail as 1 inch (quarter-sized) or larger. While today’s hail did not reach the threshold for the most damaging category, it still posed risks to people, animals, and property, particularly when driven by high winds.

Weather Context and Outlook

East Texas is no stranger to springtime severe weather. The region lies within the southern tier of Tornado Alley, where clashes between warm, moist air from the Gulf and cooler, drier air from the Rockies frequently trigger thunderstorms during the spring months.

According to the Storm Prediction Center (SPC), the day carried a Marginal Risk (Level 1 of 5) for severe weather across parts of Northeast Texas, primarily for damaging wind and large hail. The storm that affected Tyler was consistent with this forecast.

Looking ahead, the NWS Shreveport forecast calls for a continued chance of isolated thunderstorms through the remainder of the week, though no widespread severe weather is expected at this time. Residents are advised to remain weather-aware and have multiple ways to receive warnings, such as NOAA Weather Radio, smartphone alerts, and local news broadcasts.

Key Takeaways

• A severe thunderstorm produced marble-sized hail (up to 0.5 inches) across East Texas on [current date].
• The storm brought damaging wind gusts over 58 mph and caused scattered power outages affecting thousands.
• No injuries were reported, but minor property damage occurred in Tyler, Whitehouse, and Lindale.
• The National Weather Service issued timely warnings, and spotter reports helped verify the storm’s impacts.
• Hail forms in strong updrafts within thunderstorms. size depends on updraft strength and storm duration.
• East Texas remains prone to spring severe weather due to its location near the Gulf moisture source and frequent frontal boundaries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is marble-sized hail dangerous?

While marble-sized hail (0.5 inches) is less likely to cause serious injury or major structural damage compared to golf ball-sized or larger hail, it can still dent vehicles, damage roofs, harm crops, and pose a risk to people and animals caught outdoors. When combined with strong winds, even small hail can be driven sideways, increasing the potential for harm.

How can I stay safe during a hailstorm?

The best protection is to seek shelter indoors, away from windows. If you’re driving, pull over safely and wait for the storm to pass—avoid stopping under bridges or overpasses, which can be dangerous and impede traffic. If outdoors with no shelter, protect your head and seek the lowest ground available.

Does hail mean a tornado is coming?

Not necessarily. While large hail often occurs in the same storms that produce tornadoes, hail alone does not indicate a tornado is imminent. However, both hazards can occur in strong thunderstorms, so any severe thunderstorm warning should be taken seriously.

As East Texas continues through its peak severe weather season, staying informed and prepared remains the best defense against sudden storms. Residents are encouraged to review their emergency plans, ensure multiple alert methods are active, and respect all warnings issued by the National Weather Service.