VILcb density versus observed hail size. However, a significant number of low-topped convective cases were not included in this study. The MEHS provided the highest correlation to hail size in the study at 0.398. The POSH was found to have the third highest correlation coefficient to hail size at 0.324. Although VIL cb density provided some aid in determining if severe hail was possible, its correlation to predicting hail size was much less impressive.
Independent correlation coefficients for given parameter versus observed hail size for all cases.
VIL, VIL density, and cell top are all cell-based measurements. WSR-88D archive level IV data for these individual storms were collected with various parameters investigated for their use in predicting severe hail in operational forecasting. However, variability existed in the MEHS causing a decreased usefulness operationally. VIL Density was also used in a cell-based form. Results showed it to be useful in determining whether severe hail was likely, however its correlation to severe hail size was less useful.