An Energy Method for Relative Estimates of Hail Intensity

Abstract

A simple instrument was developed to estimate hail energy input per unit area. By using certain simplifying assumptions, the instruments have been calibrated in the laboratory to permit estimates of hail energy input from measurements of dent size and number of dents per unit area. Special effects noted during field use of a large number of these instruments are described. It is estimated that, although the absolute error in estimating hail-energy input may exceed 300 per cent, the error in comparative measurements of hail energy input by this equipment is approximately 50 per cent.