Alongside Gensini, the leading figures of the project include Becky Adams-Selin, an expert in hail phenomena from Atmospheric and Environmental Research, John Allen from Central Michigan University, and Andy Heymsfield from the National Center for Atmospheric Research. Described as a ‘renaissance moment’ by Adams-Selin, the field of hail science is currently experiencing a resurgence. She emphasized to the National Science Foundation that the project aims to provide valuable data for researchers, weather forecasters, insurance companies adjusting rates and minimizing damage, roofing companies, farmers, and other entities impacted by hail. Adams-Selin stressed the importance of collaboration with end-users of the scientific findings.
In a scene reminiscent of a winter wonderland, a garden in Les Esserts, Switzerland is blanketed with hailstones following a hailstorm in 2009. The ICECHIP research team is hopeful that the data they collect will enhance hailstorm forecasting capabilities and shed light on critical questions, such as the potential impact of climate change on the frequency and size of hailstones, as reported by Science magazine.
Funded by an $11 million research grant from the National Science Foundation, the project continues to receive financial support, with Gensini confirming that funds are still being allocated despite recent budget cuts at the Foundation. The ICECHIP initiative is dedicated to delving into the enigmatic world of hail, with the ultimate goal of enhancing scientific understanding and practical applications related to this frozen precipitation phenomenon.
This article was originally published in USA TODAY and explores the mission of hail researchers as they seek to unravel the mysteries of the icy projectiles that descend from the heavens.
