Reanalysis of Giant Hail Event in Catalonia (NE of the Iberian Peninsula)

On the afternoon of August 30, 2022, a supercell grew in the northeast of Catalonia producing giant hail. The thunderstorm grew rapidly and continued to develop through its track, causing 70 injuries and one fatality among the population, as well as significant damage to several buildings resulting in substantial economic losses. The thunderstorm was visible through various remote sensing equipments, including high-reflectivity radars, lightning data, and satellite imagery that revealed severe weather signatures. The thermodynamic and environmental conditions were favorable for the growth of a supercell with large hail potential, despite the instability of the atmosphere throughout August. This study aims to understand and determine why hailstones of around 10 cm were observed during the event.