What is a “Severe” Thunderstorm?
The National Weather Service classifies a severe thunderstorm as a storm that has winds greater than or equal to 58 miles per hour and/or hail 3/4 of an inch (penny-size) in diameter or larger. Hail size is determined by the largest size observed, not an average or mean. Lightning does not factor into the designation of a severe thunderstorm warning at this time.
