Severe weather swept across Kansas and Missouri, as massive chunks of hail pounded several areas and caused traffic disruptions along Interstate 70. The storm prompted the National Weather Service to issue a Severe Thunderstorm Warning and a Tornado Watch for parts of the Kansas City area. The storm, nicknamed “Gorilla hail” due to its large size, created hazardous conditions and brought life to a standstill for many residents.

Traffic disrupted and residents affected

The severe thunderstorm that ravaged parts of Kansas and Missouri left a trail of destruction and disrupted the daily lives of residents. Interstate 70, a major highway connecting the two states, experienced significant traffic delays as motorists slowed down or pulled over to protect their vehicles from the onslaught of hail. The hailstones, some as large as a baseball, pounded cars, causing damage to windshields and bodywork.

The storm also affected local communities, with many residents seeking shelter indoors to protect themselves from the severe weather conditions. The hailstorm not only posed dangers to motorists but also proved hazardous for pedestrians who were caught outside during the storm. Several reports of injuries have been recorded, with individuals sustaining bruises and cuts from the falling hail.

Impacted areas and weather warnings

The fury of the storm was felt primarily in parts of Kansas and Missouri. Cities such as Kansas City, Overland Park, and Olathe experienced the brunt of the severe weather. The National Weather Service promptly issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning and a Tornado Watch for these areas, urging residents to take immediate precautions and seek shelter.

The term “Gorilla hail” gained popularity as it accurately described the exceptional size and force of the hailstones. The term is coined based on the heavy and damaging impact the hail can have, as if being struck by a powerful gorilla. The unusual size of these hailstones intensifies the potential damage to property and poses a significant risk to human safety.

Summary:

1. Parts of Kansas and Missouri were hit by severe weather, resulting in massive chunks of hail pelting the area.
2. The storm disrupted traffic along Interstate 70, causing delays and vehicle damage.
3. Residents sought shelter indoors to protect themselves from the hazardous conditions.
4. The National Weather Service issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning and Tornado Watch for affected areas.
5. The hailstones were sizable, earning them the name “Gorilla hail” due to their exceptional force and potential for damage.

“Interstate 70 was brought to a standstill as vehicles attempted to shield themselves from the large hailstones, but unfortunately, many cars sustained damage during the storm,” said a spokesperson for the Kansas Department of Transportation.