Hail in Iowa, July 29, 1996

Low pressure developed along a cold front as it dropped southeast across the state. The air mass became unstable during the afternoon with lifted indices in the -6 to -9 degree C range. Cold air filtered in aloft, resulting in steep lapse rates. Surface dew point temperatures pooled into the middle 60s ahead of the front. Freezing levels were around 11,000 feet, resulting in hail production from many of the storms. The largest reported hail was around golf ball in size. High winds occurred in Union County, south of Lorimor. Several trees up to 14 inches in diameter were toppled, blocking roads in the area. High winds caused farm damage in Clarke County south of Murray. Large tree limbs were downed and several hog lots were blown over. The last high wind report came from north of Van Wert in Decatur County, where winds downed numerous trees and some power lines. There was one tornado reported. It was in Greene County, west of Cooper. It was a small tornado, rope like in structure. It touched down in an open field and caused little damage.